EPE, Lagos – Rising tensions following the controversial dual installation of two rival monarchs have prompted the Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government, Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, to indefinitely suspend the ongoing process for the installation of a new Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom.
The unprecedented decision, announced on Tuesday, comes in the wake of Monday’s simultaneous crowning of two high-ranking chiefs—High Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji and High Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro—by opposing factions in the ancient town of Epe, throwing the community into confusion and raising concerns over potential unrest.
According to an official letter signed by the chairman and addressed to the Grand Chief Imam of Epe Division, Sheikh Abiola Sadala, both individuals “parading themselves as the newly installed Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom are hereby suspended till further hearing from the authorities.”
“The dual installation of June 2, 2025, is legally null and void,” Animashaun declared in the letter, citing the absence of due process and unresolved succession issues following the recent demise of the former monarch, Oba Shefiu Adewale.
In a bid to maintain peace and prevent escalation, the local government authority also suspended this year’s Eid-l-Adha (Ileya) celebrations and Jumat services at the 1st Epe Central Mosque and the Eid Ground at Oke-Balogun, respectively. The chairman cited “security concerns, public health issues and all” as justification for the precautionary action.
Residents, many of whom had been preparing for the Eid festivities, have expressed shock and concern over the development. Some community members told The Merit Newspaper that the dual claims to the royal stool have already begun to divide families and loyalists, urging swift resolution from both government and traditional institutions.
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“This isn’t just a kingship matter anymore; it’s about the peace and future of Epe,” said Rasheed Olorunfunmi, a youth leader. “The government must intervene wisely and fairly.”
As the situation develops, the chairman has promised to provide further updates and has appealed to all parties to remain calm and law-abiding.
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The Olu-Epe throne is one of the most revered traditional institutions in Lagos State, and the legitimacy of its occupant carries significant social, political, and cultural weight within and beyond Epe Division.
