The General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Council of Arts and Culture, Mr. Idowu John has reiterated that the council aims to promote, propagate and establish the indigenous culture of the people of Lagos State.
Mr. Idowu stated this during the Grand finale of the week-long Kayokayo festival held in Epe, where members of the community gathered to commemorate the grand entry of King Kosoko and his warlords into Eko-Epe in 1851.
While commending the paramount ruler, Olu-Epe of Epe kingdom, Oba Shefiu Adewale, the GM mentioned that the Oba has been resilient in sustaining and transforming the celebration over the years and the festival is one of the best ways to tell the story of the people of Eko-Epe and a way to unite the people despite their socio-economic background.
“We have been assessing Kayokayo festival for years and we aim to take it to a higher pedestal so that people watching from the diaspora will be moved to come down and be part of the yearly celebration”, the GM said
He further disclosed that by December, a more elaborate festival will be held across the state to usher in the new year as well as attract tourists to Lagos.
Dr. Akeem Shittu, Permanent Board Member (SUBEB), who was also present during the event, commended the state government for its continuous support of promoting the cultural heritage of the people which has brought more economic development to the community.
However, he urged all sons and daughters of Epe living in the diaspora to continue to give the festival more support as they make themselves available.
Oba Almeed Adejoro, the Olu of Araranmi, Elerongbe of Ibeju- Lekki, opined that one of the best ways to promote peace and harmony in any community is to have the people come together under one umbrella to wine and dine and Kayokayo Festival affords such opportunity.
He, on behalf of Olu-Epe, prayed for good health, long life and economic sustainability for the people, adding that with God’s help, the present economic situation and hardship experienced by all will soon pass away.
