Olu Of Epe Tussle: Lagos Suspends New Oba

The Lagos state government has suspended the installation of the new Olu of Epe. The suspension was announced in a statement,  by Surah Animasaun, the chairperson of the Local government who said the government acted to avert the breach of security in the area.

The chairperson also canceled the Eid-al-Kabir celebration and Jumat prayer in the local council’s central mosque and eid ground.

According to Animasaun, the decision of the government has been communicated to the Grand Chief Imam of the town.

Since the death of the immediate past Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Adewale last week, the town has almost degenerated into violence because of the tussle between two princes who are angling to ascend the throne.

The two protagonists in the tussle are Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji, who the magazine learnt have been parading themselves as the traditional ruler of the town.

The LG chairman said the government acted swiftly to prevent the breakdown of security, that could arise from the clash of the supporters of the two people laying claim to the throne.

The 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.

“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.”

The late traditional ruler who joined his ancestors last Saturday has since been buried, according to Balogun of Epe Kingdom, Musiliu Adeniyi.