The Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area in Lagos State, Surah Animashaun, has announced the suspension of the installation of a new Olu of Epe following rival claims to the royal stool. The development comes in the wake of the death of the immediate past Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Adewale, on Saturday, May 31.
In an official letter addressed to the Grand Chief Imam of the community on Tuesday, Animashaun revealed that two prominent chiefs—High Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and High Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji—have been parading themselves as successors to the late monarch. She described the purported dual installation of the new Olu-Epe, which reportedly occurred on June 2, 2025, as “legally null and void.”
“To forestall security issues and any unforeseen circumstances that may arise from the followers of the two self-acclaimed monarchs,” Animashaun stated, “both individuals are hereby suspended from laying any claim to the Olu-Epe stool pending further directives from the appropriate authorities.”
In addition, the local government chairperson has suspended all Eid-al-Adha (Ileya) and Jumat celebrations scheduled to hold at the Epe Central Mosque and Eid Ground, both located in Oke Balogun, citing security and public health concerns.
“Further updates will be communicated on the above subject,” the letter concluded.
Oba Shefiu Adewale, who died at the age of 86, was buried on the same day according to Islamic rites. His death was confirmed by High Chief Odedeogboro Balogun of Epe Kingdom, Musiliu Adeniyi, who said, “The news is true. It was this morning. He will be buried 4 o’clock today.”
Before ascending the throne, Oba Adewale held the chieftaincy titles of Otun-Balogun and later Balogun, the third and second-highest traditional titles in Epe Kingdom, respectively.