- Epe Kingdom marked the 2026 Kayokayo Festival with a celebration of 175 years of heritage, unity and faith
- The event featured cultural displays, royal tributes, scholarships and community empowerment initiatives
- The festival brought together traditional rulers, residents and guests to honour Epe’s rich history and legacy
EPE, Lagos State — The ancient town of Epe came alive as residents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, government representatives and visitors gathered for the 2026 Kayokayo Festival, marking 175 years of faith, heritage, unity and prosperity.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the 17th edition of the festival, themed “Celebrating 175 Years of Faith, Heritage, Unity and Prosperity,” showcased the rich cultural identity of Epe Kingdom through colourful processions, traditional ceremonies, music, awards and community empowerment initiatives.
The celebration began with the Kayokayo Carnival Procession, which saw residents and participants move through major areas of the town in a display of culture and togetherness before the main event.
The festival featured the presence of prominent traditional and religious figures, including the Grand Chief Imam and President General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Epe Division, His Eminence Fadhilat Sheikh Imam Abdul Rahman Sadallah Abiola Aliru, who led the opening prayer.
Chairman of the Epe Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee, Barrister Bayo Saliu-Okulu, welcomed guests and described the celebration as a reflection of Epe’s enduring traditions and collective values.
The Traditional Prime Minister and Chief Host of the occasion, Alhaji Chief Akanni Adio-Oduola, delivered the keynote address, while Ambassador Oluwatoyin Kayode Lawal and Princess Bolanle Kazeem served as chairman and chairperson of the occasion.
A major highlight of the festival was the presentation of the Epe Kayokayo Scholarship to indigent students, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to education and community development.
Guests were also entertained with cultural displays and musical performances from renowned artistes, including King Alao Malaika, as the celebration brought together generations of Epe sons and daughters.
The event ended with the symbolic lighting of Etufu, a traditional ritual that represents the spiritual significance and historical roots of the Kayokayo Festival.
Beyond the celebration, organisers used the occasion to honour Epe Kingdom’s 175-year traditional leadership journey, tracing its history from King Morounfolu Kosoko, who ruled between 1851 and 1862, through successive traditional leaders who shaped the kingdom’s growth.
The festival committee said the anniversary provided an opportunity to preserve Epe’s heritage while promoting unity, development and a stronger connection among residents at home and abroad.
The 2026 Kayokayo Festival concluded with prayers, appreciation messages and renewed commitment from stakeholders to continue protecting the cultural legacy of Epe Kingdom for future generations.
