The Lagos State Government has issued a firm warning against unauthorised individuals falsely claiming to be the Oba-elect of the Olu of Epe Kingdom, following the recent demise of His Royal Majesty, Oba Shefiu Adewale, the 19th traditional ruler of the kingdom.
Oba Adewale passed away on 31st May 2025 at the age of 86 and was interred the same day in line with Islamic customs.
In an official statement released via the government’s Facebook page on Friday, the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr Bolaji Robert, clarified that no individual has received formal recognition or approval from the state government as the successor to the Olu of Epe stool.
“The public, especially residents of Epe and neighbouring communities, is hereby notified that the Lagos State Government has not endorsed any person as the new Olu of Epe. Anyone making such claims is acting in violation of the law,” the statement noted.
Mr Robert stressed that the appointment of traditional rulers in Lagos is governed by established statutory and administrative procedures, none of which have been initiated in the case of Epe’s succession.
He urged members of the public to disregard any assertions made by self-acclaimed monarchs and cautioned against extending traditional courtesies or recognition to such individuals, as doing so may constitute complicity in impersonation.
The commissioner further disclosed that security agencies have been instructed to maintain law and order in the area and to investigate any unauthorised claims to the royal title. Offenders, he warned, would be prosecuted in accordance with the Lagos State Obas and Chiefs Law.
Mr Robert reaffirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s unwavering commitment to due process, transparency, and the preservation of the sanctity of traditional institutions in the state.
