The Council of Obas and Chiefs in Epe Division convened its monthly meeting on Monday, May 13, 2025, focusing on key issues affecting traditional governance in the region while formally welcoming new members into the council.
EpeInsights reports that the gathering, held in Epe, served as a platform to deliberate on community matters and strengthen the unity of traditional leadership across the division.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the induction of several newly appointed traditional rulers and chiefs into the council.
Newly inducted members included High Chief Odusegun Anwoju, Baale of Iraye-Oke; High Chief Badejo AbdulWakil Olamiji, Bashorun of Odo-Noforija Kingdom; and HRM Oloja Odularan II, Ogegbo of Ibowon Kingdom.
Their inclusion marks a growing representation within the traditional council, reinforcing its commitment to unity and community development.
However, the meeting was not without controversy. Chief Yesiru Dada, the Agbon of Epe Land, raised concern over an incident during the recent handover of the Accident and Emergency Centre at the Federal Medical Centre, Epe.
According to him, the event graced by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was marred by disputes over seating arrangements involving the Alara chiefs. He called on the council to address the issue to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In response, HRM Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, the Aladeshoyin and Paramount Ruler of Odo-Noforija, addressed a letter circulating on social media, purportedly from the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The letter named HRM Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, as the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs and Chairman of the Epe Division Council—positions currently held by HRM Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, the Oloja of Epe Land.
Oba Ogunlaja firmly rejected the letter on behalf of the council, stating that the Alara of Ilara has neither joined nor expressed interest in the Epe Division Council of Obas and Chiefs since his enthronement.
“Anyone not admitted into the council is not recognized as a member,” he declared.
Also weighing in, Oba Ganiu Aderibigbe, the Alayandelu of Odo-Ayandelu Kingdom, called for an official letter to be sent to the Lagos State House of Assembly to clarify the authenticity and intent of the circulating document.
The council concluded the meeting by reiterating its dedication to promoting cohesion, cultural heritage, and effective representation among the traditional rulers in Epe Division.
