House of Representatives member, Hon. Wale Raji, has promised Epe Federal Constituency of Lagos State more dividends of democracy.
Raji made the vow to his constituents at the Grand Finale of the 2023 Epe Kayo-Kayo Festival which took place at the Marina Waterfront, Epe.
Epe Kayokayo Festival is the biggest religious, cultural, and social annual event in Epe, Lagos, commemorating the arrival of King Kosoko of Lagos to the ancient town in 1851.
The festival, which has religious significance, brings the people of Epe both home and in the diaspora, to felicitate and interact every year.
Speaking at the grand finale, which wrapped up week-long celebration of culture and unity that included a Quranic recitation contest, novelty match, youth rally, and children’s party, amongst others, the lawmaker expressed excitement that the annual festival had united Epe indigenes and community dwellers more than ever.
Hon. Raji hailed the Epe Kayokayo Festival Planning Committee led by the Aremo of Epe, Otunba TJ Abass, for taking the celebration to a new dimension, saying that the festival would not have been a success without the organisers’ efforts.
Raji also thanked the people of Epe for coming out to vote for him in the last election, noting that his overwhelming victory at the polls reflected the people’s trust in him.
He, therefore, promised to reward the community for the trust reposed in him by facilitating more development to Epe division.
The Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Shefiu Adewale, speaking earlier at a press conference which took place at his palace, to kick-start the one- week event, gave a hearty welcome to everyone who came out to commemorate the iconic Kayokayo festival, declaring that the festival had been progressing every time and “is no longer a local festival but a global one now.”
The monarch recalled that the Kayokayo Festival came about against the backdrop of perception that Epe people have no culture.
“I want to appreciate God who has kept us since last year to this present moment. Those who started this festival together are no more now may God almighty forgive them their sins.
“Some said we have no culture, and that was what gave rise to the Kayokayo festival, and it is progressing every time. It is no longer a local festival but a global one now,” the Olu-Epe said.
The Olu-Epe further appreciated the relentless efforts of Otunba Abass and other organising committee members in keeping the flame of the festival alive year after year.
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