Africa-Press – Nigeria. Residents, youths and other community stakeholders in Epe have appealed to the Lagos State Government to urgently step in and resolve the prolonged Obaship succession crisis, warning that the absence of a traditional ruler is beginning to pose a threat to peace and stability in the historic town.
Seven months after the death of the Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, the ancient coastal community is yet to have a successor, as disputes between two leading contenders continue to delay the process.
The monarch died in May 2025, raising expectations of a smooth and timely transition. However, conflicting claims from rival camps have since stalled progress, heightening tension among their supporters and creating unease within the community.
Despite several mediation efforts by elders and prominent figures, no lasting resolution has been reached, while frustration, particularly among the youths, has steadily grown.
Tensions reached a critical point during the last Eid-el-Kabir celebration when security concerns forced the Epe Local Government to suspend Eid prayers at the designated praying ground.
The suspension was later reversed 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 led to a temporary calm and commitments to lawful conduct. However, residents now say that months after those engagements, no tangible steps have been taken to break the deadlock.
Community members lament that important cultural, social and communal activities are being conducted without a king on the throne, an abnormal situation described as contrary to Epe’s age-long traditions and identity.
As concerns deepen, youth groups and religious bodies have submitted formal petitions to the state government, calling for swift intervention and cautioning that further delay 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 register their grievances and seek his assistance in engaging the state authorities.
Responding, Seriki appealed for calm and restraint, warning against actions that could undermine public peace. He expressed confidence in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing him as a fair-minded leader who would listen to all sides 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 act decisively. He noted that youths were becoming increasingly restless and residents deeply unhappy with the prolonged uncertainty following the monarch’s death.
He also called on notable sons and daughters of Epe to support government efforts and work with relevant institutions to achieve a credible and lasting resolution to the crisis.
Stakeholders insist that the Lagos State Government remains the only authority with the capacity and moral standing to mediate effectively and deliver an outcome that will be widely accepted as fair, transparent and just.
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