The Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area in Lagos State, Hon. Surah Animashaun, has suspended the installation of a new Olu of Epe and cancelled the Eid-al-Kabir and Jumat prayers scheduled to hold at the Epe Central Mosque and Eid Ground.
The decision, announced in an official letter to the Grand Chief Imam of Epe on Tuesday, comes amid mounting tension in the community following competing claims to the royal stool by two prominent chiefs.
Following the recent death of Oba Shefiu Adewale, the immediate past Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, both Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji have reportedly declared themselves successors to the throne, each claiming to be the newly installed monarch.
Animashaun stated that the suspension of both claimants and the cancellation of Eid activities were precautionary measures to maintain peace and security in the community and prevent unrest among supporters of the rival factions.
The statement read in part:
“Sequel to the dual installation of the new Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom on June 2, 2025, which is legally null and void following the recent passing of Oba Shefiu Adewale, I am writing to inform your office that High Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and High Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji, both parading themselves as the newly installed Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, are hereby suspended pending further directives from the appropriate authorities.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, security concerns, and public health issues, the Eid-l-Adha (Ileya) and Jumat services at the First Epe Central Mosque, Oke Balogun, and the Eid Ground at Eid Street, Oke Balogun, Epe, are hereby cancelled. Further updates on these matters will be communicated accordingly.”
The move follows the death of 86-year-old Oba Shefiu Adewale on Saturday, May 31, 2025. His passing was confirmed by High Chief Odedeogboro Balogun of Epe Kingdom, Musiliu Adeniyi, who stated the monarch would be buried the same day.
Oba Adewale, prior to becoming king, held the title of Otun-Balogun and later Balogun, the third and second-highest traditional positions in Epe Kingdom, respectively, before his eventual coronation as Olu of Epe.
The LG chair's intervention aims to prevent further escalation as the community awaits official resolution on the rightful successor to the royal stool.
ADEOLA KUNLE
