The 175th edition of the Kayokayo Festival reached a colourful and historic climax on Saturday, July 11, 2026, as traditional chiefs, royal families, sons and daughters of Epe Kingdom from Nigeria and the diaspora, alongside distinguished guests, converged on the Marina Waterfront, Epe, to celebrate the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and historical legacy.
Lagostrend report that the grand finale commemorated the historic arrival of the late King Kosoko in Epe in 1851, a defining moment that shaped the history and identity of the ancient kingdom. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, music, cultural splendour and communal pride as thousands gathered to honour their ancestors and celebrate the enduring unity of the Epe people.
Traditional chiefs, Mogajis (family heads), and representatives of the various wards and families of the kingdom turned out in colourful traditional attire, proudly showcasing the customs, values and cultural heritage of Epe. Families warmly hosted visitors and guests from different parts of Nigeria and abroad, reflecting the hospitality and unity for which the kingdom is known.
Speaking at the event, the Member representing Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Wale Raji; Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Tobun; the Oloja-Elect of Lagos, Prince Abiola Kosoko; the Aro of Epe Kingdom, High Chief Adio Oduola; Vice-Chancellor of Bola Ahmed Tinubu University, Abuja, Prof. Nosirudeen Olajide Onibon; High Chief Wale Mogaji; High Chief Adebayo Balogun; High Chief Shobaloju; High Chief Seriki Odibo; President of the Oke Balogun Descendants Association, Alhaji Akeem Kola Seriki; Mr. Ahmed Osiefa; Prince Abioye Kazeem, and other prominent personalities reflected on the historic journey of King Kosoko from Lagos Island to Epe in 1851.
The speakers congratulated the sons and daughters of Epe Kingdom at home and abroad for sustaining the annual cultural celebration and called for greater unity, peace and mutual understanding among the descendants of King Kosoko. They also urged residents and stakeholders to remain committed to the development and progress of Epe Kingdom.
One of the major highlights of the grand finale was the cultural competition among the participating wards. The Isale Agoro Cultural Troupe opened the performances with an impressive display, followed by other wards that thrilled the audience with captivating cultural exhibitions. Renowned Fuji musician, Alhaji Shefiu Alao Malaika, entertained the massive crowd with electrifying performances that lasted until the early hours of the morning.
Earlier in the day, the six participating wards—Oke Balogun, Bado Isale, Oke Posun/Lagbade, Isale Agoro, Oke Oba/Popo Oba and the Royal Waterfront Group—paraded through the major streets of Epe during the annual Fanti Carnival. The procession featured vibrant costumes, traditional music, energetic dancing and artistic displays, attracting large crowds and adding colour to the celebration before returning to the Marina Waterfront for the grand finale.
The successful conclusion of the 175th Kayokayo Festival once again reaffirmed Epe Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, promoting unity among its people and showcasing its rich history to future generations.
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