By Onozure Dania

lagos—It was pageantry when Epetedo Union marked its 90th anniversary recently in Epetedo Lagos State.

Indigenes of the community, as well as well-wishers came from far and near to grace the occasion. It was a day to reunite with relatives and friends whom they had not seen for a long time. The event provided a rare opportunity for protracted exchange of pleasantries and throwing of banter at one another. Joy indescribable filled the air as the show lasted.

But the high point of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to selected Nigerians, who have distinguished themselves in various fields. One of the awardees, who received the loudest ovation, was Chief Tesilim Almaroof, a community leader and the head of Arota/Ologun family of Orile-Oshodi in Oshodi Local Government Area of Lagos State.

Before then, the President of the union, Dr. Babs Hussain, said 90 years of existence was worthy to be celebrated with grandeur and style, adding that “This is Epetedo for show.”

He stated that the community was known for peace and affection for indigenes and non-indigenes alike, a mark he revealed was inherited from its forefathers.

According to him, Epetedo believes in friendship and unity, and abhors land grabbing and other forms of thuggery.

Presenting the award to Almaroof, on behalf of the union, former governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, said that the recipient deserved the recognition for his selfless service to humanity.

Almaroof, who was represented by Alhaji Usman Oshodi, thanked God and the community for the honour bestowed on him, saying it was a rare privilege to have been selected from a multitude.