Ogunmodede Club Urges Peace Amid Olu-Epe Throne Tensions
Atume Terfa
A fresh call for calm has been issued in Epe Kingdom, as the prestigious Epe Ogunmodede Club urged rival factions in the Olu-Epe stool succession dispute to avoid actions that could jeopardize the community’s peace and cultural heritage.
The appeal follows heightened tensions since the May 31, 2025, passing of Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, aged 86, which left the revered throne vacant. Two senior chiefs — High Chief Adeniyi Kadri Odedeogboro and High Chief Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji — have since declared themselves rightful successors, reportedly holding separate installation rites that split the community.
Amid the unrest, Epe Local Government Chairperson Surah Animashaun suspended all installation activities and cancelled major religious gatherings, including Eid-el-Kabir prayers and Friday Jumat services, citing security concerns and the need to prevent violence.
Speaking during the 2025 King Kosoko Memorial Lecture at Glover Hall on Sunday, Barrister Omodele Ibrahim, Ogunmodede Club President and Alakoso of Epe, commended the Lagos State Government’s intervention but stressed patience and respect for due process.
“Let us safeguard our founding values of unity, love, and peaceful coexistence. Only by upholding these principles can we preserve Epe’s legacy for generations to come,” Ibrahim said.
Other community voices echoed the sentiment. Barrister Tunde Seriki, Baamofin of Epe Kingdom, reminded attendees that harmony is a cornerstone of Epe tradition. High Chief Wale Mogaji praised the memorial lecture for reinforcing a shared cultural identity at a delicate time.
Analysts warn that prolonged discord could threaten social cohesion, public safety, and cultural stability in the historic Lagos community. By freezing the parallel installations and gatherings, local authorities hope to cool tensions while the Lagos State Government works toward a definitive ruling on the rightful successor.
The Ogunmodede Club’s intervention underscores a growing demand for restraint and dialogue as Epe’s residents await a resolution to the royal dispute.
