Nigeria: Epe LG Chairman Suspends Monarch Installation, Cancels Sallah Prayers

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area, Lagos State, Surah Animashaun, has suspended the installation of a new Olu of Epe and cancelled all Eid-al-Adha and Jumat prayers in the local council area following a leadership dispute involving two contenders to the traditional stool.

In a letter addressed to the Grand Chief Imam of Epe and made public on Tuesday, Animashaun said the decision was taken to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the wake of two rival claims to the Olu-Epe title.

Following the death of the immediate past Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Adewale, two chiefs, Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji, have declared themselves as successors to the throne.

The letter described the installation ceremonies held by both claimants on June 2 as “legally null and void” and announced that their activities would remain suspended until further notice.

The statement reads: “Sequel to the dual installation of the new Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom on the 2nd of June, which is legally null and void as a result of 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, are hereby suspended till further directive from appropriate authorities.”

The chairman also announced the suspension of the Eid-al-Adha (Ileya) celebrations and Jumat service scheduled to take place at Epe Central Mosque, Oke Balogun, and the Eid Ground at Eid Street, stating concerns over security, public safety, and possible unrest

She added: “Due to the unforeseen circumstances, security concerns, and public health issues, the Eid and Jumat celebrations are hereby cancelled at the designated locations in Epe.”

Further updates on the matter, according to the local government chairman, will be communicated in due course.

Oba Shefiu Adewale, the former Olu of Epe, died on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the age of 86. His death was confirmed by High Chief Musiliu Adeniyi, the Balogun of Epe Kingdom, who stated that the monarch was buried later that same day, following tradition.

Oba Adewale had served as Otun-Balogun before ascending the throne and was widely respected in Epe for his contributions to cultural preservation and community development.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding as relevant traditional and state institutions review the chieftaincy dispute.