Epe LG suspends new Olu of Epe installation amidst rival claims, cancels Eid celebrations

The Epe Local Government Area Chairperson, Surah Animashaun, has suspended the installation of the new Olu of Epe due to two rival claimants, also cancelling Eid-al-Adha and Jumat prayers to prevent security issues

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area in Lagos State, Surah Animashaun, has suspended the installation of the new Olu of Epe, following claims to the stool by two rival individuals.

Also read: Innersloth: Epe people celebrate religious and cultural festival, Kayo-Kayo

In a decisive move to forestall potential security issues, Animashaun also announced the cancellation of all Eid-al-Adha (Ileya) celebrations and Jumat prayers at the local council’s central mosque and Eid ground.

The directive was communicated in a letter addressed to the community’s Grand Chief Imam on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Animashaun explained that after the demise of the immediate Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, Oba Shefiu Adewale, two prominent chiefs in the community, Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji, have both been parading themselves as his legitimate successor.

The LG chairman stated that her decision was critical to prevent unforeseen circumstances and security concerns that might arise from the followers of the two self-acclaimed monarchs.

The official statement read: “Sequel to the dual installation of the new Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom on the 2nd of June, 2025 which is legally null and void as a result of the recent passing of immediate Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom 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 till further hearing from the authorities.”

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 till further hearing from the authorities.

It further added, “Due to the unforeseen circumstances, security concerns, public health issues and all, the Eid-l-Adha (Ileya) and Jumat services celebration is hereby cancelled at the first Epe Central Mosque, Oke Balogun and Eid Ground at Eid Street, Oke Balogun Epe respectively. Further updates will be communicated on the above subject.”

Recall that Oba Shefiu Adewale, 86, passed away in the early hours of Saturday, May 31, 2025. His death was confirmed on the same day by High Chief Odedeogboro Balogun of Epe Kingdom, Musiliu Adeniyi, who stated the king would be buried that afternoon.

Prior to his ascension to the throne, Oba Adewale had served as Otun-Balogun, the third-highest chieftaincy title in the land, before being promoted to Balogun and subsequently crowned king.

Also read: Epe LG chairman, Hon. Surah Animashaun, celebrates Aare Emmanuel-King at 50

The current dispute over his succession underscores the sensitivity surrounding traditional leadership in the region.