Tension In Epe As Lagos Council Chairman Suspends Monarch’s Installation, Cancels Eid-El-Kabir Prayers
The Chairperson of the Epe Local Government Area in Lagos State, Surah Animashaun, has suspended the installation of a new Olu of Epe following a dispute over the traditional stool and mounting security concerns.
The decision comes in the wake of the recent death of the 86-year-old Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, Oba Shefiu Adewale, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday, May 31, 2025.
In a letter addressed to the Grand Chief Imam of Epe on Tuesday, Animashaun also announced the cancellation of this year’s Eid-al-Kabir (Ileya) celebrations and Jumat prayers at the Epe Central Mosque and Eid Ground, citing potential unrest.
The LG boss stated that two community chiefs — High Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and High Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji — have been laying claim to the throne, each declaring himself the rightful successor.
Their actions, she said, have heightened tensions within the community and created a volatile atmosphere.
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 following the recent passing of Oba Shefiu Adewale, I am writing to inform your office that both individuals parading themselves as the new monarch are hereby suspended pending further directives from relevant authorities.”
Citing “unforeseen circumstances, security concerns, and public health issues,” Animashaun said the decision to halt religious festivities was taken in the best interest of peace and public safety.
Further developments on the matter, she added, will be communicated to the public in due course. (SaharaReporters)
