In a united front to quell rising tensions over traditional leadership in Lagos State, monarchs from Epe Division have publicly reaffirmed the current leadership structure within both the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs and its Epe Division chapter.
EpeInsights had reported that traditional rulers from across Epe Division had an emergency meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025.
At the meeting held in the Aladeshonyin Palace in Odo-Noforija Kingdom, Eredo LCDA, the traditional rulers reiterated their unwavering support for His Royal Majesty Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun as both the Divisional Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
Dispelling rumors of a power tussle, the Olofin Ajaiye of Orugbo-Iddo Land, HRM Oba Adewale Mushafau Abdul, clarified a recent incident that sparked confusion at a Lagos State Council meeting.
“At that meeting, the Alara of Ilara, HRM Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, mistakenly took the seat designated for the Vice-Chairman,” he said.
“The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Kayode Roberts, promptly corrected the error and reasserted Oba Kamorudeen’s rightful role.”
Decades-Old Rotational System Still in Place
The Aladeshonyin of Odo-Noforija and Vice-Chairman of the Epe Division Council, HRM Oba Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja (JP), officially presented a signed resolution that emphasizes the continued adherence to the division’s rotational leadership model.
“This structure, which has existed for decades, ensures fair leadership distribution among our traditional rulers,” Oba Ogunlaja noted.
“It was this very rotation that allowed the late Alara of Ilara, Oba Akeem Okunola Adesanya, to serve as Chairman before his passing.”
He also addressed attempts to disrupt the arrangement, calling them acts of ingratitude.
“How do you challenge the very system that supported your ascent to the throne? It’s dishonorable to undermine the legacy that paved your path,” he said.
“Now that the baton is back with Epe, others must respect the process and await their turn.”
Return to the 1976 Law
Backing the council’s position, the Lisa of Epe Land, High Chief Waheed Alaolu, explained that the council is returning to the principles enshrined in the 1976 law, which codifies rotational leadership in the region.
“This law protects unity by ensuring every section of Epe Division has a chance to lead,” he emphasized.
Although Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun was unavoidably absent from the meeting, his fellow monarchs signed a formal resolution reaffirming his leadership.
The document will be submitted to the appropriate state authorities to ensure continued stability and respect for tradition.
