Kunle Adelabu
-Celebration holds September 8 to 16
The King Kosoko Royal Family of Lagos, is set for another edition of the historic return of Oba Kosoko to Lagos after his sojourn in Epe, following the British bombardment of 1851.
This year will make it 163 years after the return of the famous Lagos King with his lieutenants, and the third edition of the celebration.
At the press briefing heralding this year’s edition of “The Return 1862”, held at the King Kosoko Memorial Museum, Ereo, Lagos, on Tuesday, the Oloja of Lagos – elect, Prince Abiola Olojo – Kosoko, said that aside from the fact that the celebration is to preserve the legacy of their ancestor, he added that it is also a means of promoting cultural awareness, unity and tourism.
The briefing also witnessed the unveiling of the programmes of activities and fabrics for the celebration as well as the head of branches of King Kosoko Royal Family and members.
“This week-long ceremony, scheduled for September 8th to 16th, 2024, commemorates the historic return of King Kosoko and his followers to Lagos in 1862. This return resulted in the founding of the settlement known as Epetedo and the establishment of the Ereko palace”, Prince Kosoko said.
“The Return 1862, is a celebration of our rich cultural heritage and a tribute to the legacy of King Kosoko and his followers who played a significant role in shaping the history of Lagos.
“This event aims to promote cultural awareness, unity and tourism, while showcasing the traditions and customs of the Lagos people. The Return 1862 has always been the only event that brings the indigenous people of Lagos from all the five divisions of Lagos, to one spot”.
According to the Oloja – elect, the press briefing will be followed by King Kosoko Memorial Lecture on September 8 at the Glover Hall, Lagos, while the interdenominational traditional prayer comes up September 10th at the King Kosoko Palace, Ereko, Lagos.
During the memorial lecture, book and the family anthem will be unveiled.
It will be Jumat Prayer on Friday, September 13, 2024, at the Lagos Central Mosque and Thanksgiving Service at the Ereko Methodist Church, on September 15.
The major highlight of the celebration, which is the lightening of the arrival light, is scheduled for the evening of September 15, at the King Kosoko Palace, Ereko, and the grand finale is on September 16, also at the palace.
During the celebration, there will be cultural performances and exhibitions of the relics of King Kosoko and his followers; Street music, dance carnival and Districts cultural gatherings and the Lagos Food Fair.
While stating that numerous dignitaries and government officials across the country, will be gracing the historic event, Prince Kosoko emphasized that the celebration affords the family to reflect on their past and use the present to forge into the future.
“We have invited dignitaries from across the country, including traditional rulers, government officials and cultural enthusiasts, to join us in celebrating this significant aspect of our cultural history”, Oloja – elect said.
“The Return 1862 is not just a celebration, but also an opportunity for us to reflect on our past, appreciate our present, and shape our future. We believe that this event will foster unity, promote cultural exchange, and contribute to the economic development of Lagos.
“We look forward to welcoming you to The Return 1862, and sharing this unforgettable experience with the people of Lagos and beyond”, he added.
