The Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area, Lagos State, Hon. Surah Animashaun, has announced the suspension of the installation of a new Olu of Epe following a tussle between two contenders to the royal stool.

In a letter addressed to the Grand Chief Imam of Epe on Tuesday, Animashaun also ordered the cancellation of the Eid-al-Kabir (Ileya) celebration and Jumat prayers scheduled to hold at the Epe Central Mosque and Eid Ground in Oke Balogun.

The suspension, according to her, became necessary in order to prevent security breaches and maintain public order following the claims by two high-ranking chiefs, Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji, both of whom are laying claim to the title of Olu of Epe.

The LG chairperson described the dual installation of the monarchs, reportedly held on June 2, 2025, as “legally null and void,” pending further directives from the appropriate authorities.

The letter reads in part:

“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 the immediate Olu-Epe, 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 unforeseen circumstances, security concerns, and public health issues, the Eid-al-Adha and Jumat prayers scheduled to hold at the First Epe Central Mosque, Oke Balogun, and Eid Ground at Eid Street, Oke Balogun, Epe, are hereby cancelled.

“Further updates will be communicated on the above subject.”

The development comes in the wake of the passing of the immediate past Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Adewale, who died in the early hours of Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the age of 86.

Confirming the monarch’s demise to Lagos Eye News, the Balogun of Epe Kingdom, High Chief Musiliu Adeniyi, said the late monarch would be buried later that same day.

“The news is true. It was this morning. He will be buried at 4 o’clock today,” he said.

Oba Adewale had ascended the throne after serving in several traditional roles, including as Otun-Balogun and later Balogun of Epe Kingdom.