By Ghazali Ibrahim 
Following days of uncertainty and public concern, the Epe Local Government has clarified that this year’s Eid-el-Adha (Ileya) prayers will go ahead as scheduled, reversing an earlier move that was widely interpreted as a ban due to tensions surrounding the disputed installation of a new Olu-Epe.
In a circular dated June 4, addressed to the Grand Chief Imam of Epe Division, the local council stated that while the controversial dual installation of two High Chiefs Adeniyi Kadri Odedogboro and Iskilu Olajide Ikuforiji as Olu-Epe remains suspended and declared legally null and void, peaceful religious observance by the public will not be restricted.
The clarification comes after earlier confusion sparked by security directives tied to the succession dispute, which had cast doubt on whether key events, including Eid prayers and the annual Ojude-Oba celebration, would be permitted.
“While the Local Government will not stop anybody from performing their Islamic rights,” the letter read.
“for security reasons, proactive measures are required to ensure peace and harmony in the community.”
The statement emphasized that the two claimants to the Olu-Epe title are barred from public appearances especially at prayer grounds so as to avoid any potential threat to lives.
Residents are free to gather for Eid at designated locations, including the Eid Ground at Eid Street and the 1st Epe Central Mosque at Oke Balogun.
The council’s clarification aims to restore calm after days of mounting tension following the unexpected appearance of two rival monarchs, each claiming legitimate succession rights following the recent death of Oba Shefiu Adewale, the immediate past Olu-Epe.
The public had feared that the crisis could disrupt major religious and cultural activities in the community.
While the matter of succession remains unresolved, the council assured that further announcements would be made as the situation develops.
With this assurance, Muslims in Epe can now prepare to mark the holy festival of Eid-el-Adha without fear of restriction though under heightened security.
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