For over seven months, the ancient town of Epe in Lagos State has been without a traditional ruler, a situation that is now sparking serious concern and urgent calls for government intervention. The vacuum was created following the demise of the Olu-Epe of Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, in May 2025. Despite initial hopes for a swift succession, the process has been deadlocked by controversy involving two prominent sons of the community.
A Town in Limbo: The Stalled Succession
After the monarch's passing, expectations for a peaceful and prompt transition were high. However, these hopes have been dashed by persistent disagreements, claims, and counterclaims from the two main contenders. The resulting tension has divided the community, with efforts by elders to mediate proving largely unsuccessful. The impasse has left Epe in an unusual and unsettling position, where major cultural, social, and community programs are being conducted without the presence of a king—a significant departure from tradition for a town with a rich heritage.
The situation escalated notably during the last Sallah period. Fears of potential violence grew so severe that the Epe Local Government took the drastic step of suspending the 2025 Eid prayers at the designated prayer ground. This decision was later overturned by the Lagos State Government, which stepped in to assure residents of adequate security and appealed for calm. The state government also facilitated a dialogue between the two factions, leading to a temporary agreement and renewed calls for peace and order.
Growing Agitation and Formal Appeals for Action
Months after the state's intervention, community members report that no concrete progress has been made to break the deadlock. This prolonged delay has fueled anxiety, particularly among the youth. In response, youth groups and religious organizations have taken formal action, writing letters to the Lagos State Government. These appeals warn that the continued leadership vacuum and unresolved tussle could lead to a breakdown of law and order if not addressed urgently.
Recently, a group of youths, led by Alhaji Musbau Adeola Agoro, took their grievance to the residence of the Baamofin of Epe Kingdom, Tunde Seriki. They urged him to leverage his influence and connections to persuade the state government to take decisive action. In his response, Seriki counseled patience and restraint. He emphasized the need to avoid any actions that could disrupt public peace and expressed confidence in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whom he described as a fair leader who listens.
A Call for Unity and Decisive Government Intervention
The call for resolution has also reached prominent indigenes abroad. Alhaji Omodele Ibrahim, the Alakoso of Epe Kingdom and president of the Epe Ogunmodede Club based in the United Kingdom, voiced deep concern over the impasse. He stated that the government needs to act swiftly, noting that the people are unhappy and the youths are agitated. Ibrahim called on all notable sons and daughters of Epe to support the government and relevant agencies in finding a lasting and credible solution.
Community stakeholders are united in their belief that only the Lagos State Government possesses the necessary authority and moral standing to mediate effectively. They insist that any resolution must be widely perceived as fair, just, and transparent to gain community acceptance. As tensions continue to simmer beneath the surface, the residents of Epe are issuing a collective plea for swift action. Their goal is clear: to restore traditional leadership, preserve the hard-earned peace, and safeguard the unity and stability of their historic town for future generations.
