Epe youths, residents call on LASG to end Obaship crisis

Residents, youths and community stakeholders in Epe have called on the Lagos State Government to urgently intervene in the lingering Obaship succession crisis, warning that the prolonged leadership vacuum could threaten peace and stability in the historic town.

Seven months after the death of the Olu-Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, Epe remains without a traditional ruler, as disagreements between two leading contenders continue to stall the succession process.

The monarch passed away in May 2025, raising expectations of a swift and peaceful transition that has yet to materialise.

Community sources said the process has been plagued by claims and counterclaims from the rival camps, fuelling tension among their supporters and unsettling residents.

Attempts by elders to mediate have so far yielded limited results, while frustration among youths has continued to mount.

Tension peaked during the last Sallah celebration when fears of violence prompted the Epe Local Government to suspend Eid prayers at the Eid ground.

The decision was later overturned by the state government, which assured residents of adequate security and appealed for calm. Subsequent talks convened by the government reportedly led to a temporary truce and renewed commitments to peace and lawful conduct.

However, months after the dialogue, residents said no concrete steps have been taken to resolve the impasse. Community members now lament that key cultural, social and communal activities are being held without a king on the throne, a situation described as alien to Epe’s long-standing traditions and heritage.

Amid growing concern, youth groups and religious organisations have written formal petitions to the state government, urging immediate action and warning that further delay could result in a breakdown of law and order.

On Wednesday, a group of youths led by Alhaji Musbau Adeola Agoro visited the residence of the Baamofin of Epe Kingdom, Tunde Seriki, to formally express their displeasure and appeal for his intervention with the state authorities.

Addressing the youths, Seriki urged restraint and calm, warning against actions capable of disrupting public order.

He expressed confidence in Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing him as a leader who listens and would be fair to all parties involved in the dispute.

Concern was also voiced by the President of Epe Ogunmodede Club and Alakoso of Epe Kingdom, Alhaji Omodele Ibrahim, who spoke from the United Kingdom.

He urged the government to act swiftly, noting that youths were increasingly agitated and residents unhappy with the prolonged uncertainty following the monarch’s death.

He further called on prominent sons and daughters of Epe to support the government and relevant agencies in achieving a credible and lasting resolution to the crisis.

Stakeholders insist that only the Lagos State Government possesses the authority and moral standing to mediate effectively and deliver an outcome that will be accepted as fair, transparent and just by all parties.

As tensions continue to simmer, residents of Epe are appealing for decisive intervention to restore traditional leadership, preserve peace and safeguard the unity of the ancient coastal town.