Epe Residents Call on Sanwo-Olu to Resolve Ongoing Obaship Crisis

Table of Contents

• Community Appeal for Resolution
• Obaship Succession Crisis
• Rising Tensions
• Cultural and Social Impact
• Youth and Religious Body Involvement
• Stakeholder Appeals for Action

Residents, youth, and other community stakeholders in Epe have urged the Lagos State Government to promptly intervene and address the ongoing Obaship succession crisis, cautioning that the lack of a traditional ruler is beginning to threaten peace and stability in the historic town.

Seven months following the passing of the Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, the ancient coastal community still lacks a successor, as disputes between two primary contenders continue to impede the process.

The monarch passed away in May 2025, raising hopes for a smooth and timely transition. However, conflicting claims from rival factions have stalled progress, increasing tensions among their supporters and creating unease within the community.

Despite multiple mediation attempts by elders and prominent community figures, no lasting resolution has been achieved, leading to growing frustration, particularly among the youth.

Tensions escalated during the last Eid-el-Kabir celebration when security concerns compelled the Epe Local Government to suspend Eid prayers at the designated praying ground.

This suspension was later lifted by the Lagos State Government, which assured residents of adequate security and urged all parties to maintain peace.

Subsequent peace talks facilitated by the state government reportedly resulted in a temporary calm and commitments to lawful conduct. However, residents now express that months after those discussions, no concrete steps have been taken to resolve the deadlock.

Community members lament that significant cultural, social, and communal activities are being conducted without a king on the throne, an unusual situation that contradicts Epe’s long-standing traditions and identity.

As concerns mount, youth groups and religious organizations have submitted formal petitions to the state government, demanding swift intervention and warning that further delays could lead to a breakdown of law and order.

On Wednesday, a delegation of youths led by Alhaji Musbau Adeola Agoro visited the residence of the Baamofin of Epe Kingdom, Chief Tunde Seriki, to formally express their grievances and seek his assistance in engaging the state authorities.

In response, Seriki called for calm and restraint, cautioning against actions that could disrupt public peace. He expressed confidence in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing him as a fair-minded leader who would listen to all perspectives and act in the interest of justice.

Adding his voice from the United Kingdom, the President of the Epe Ogunmodede Club and Alakoso of Epe Kingdom, Alhaji Omodele Ibrahim, urged the state government to take decisive action. He noted that youth are becoming increasingly restless, and residents are deeply dissatisfied with the prolonged uncertainty following the monarch’s death.

He also called upon notable sons and daughters of Epe to support government efforts and collaborate with relevant institutions to achieve a credible and lasting resolution to the crisis.

Stakeholders maintain that the Lagos State Government is the only authority with the capacity and moral standing to mediate effectively and produce an outcome that will be widely accepted as fair, transparent, and just.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!