- High Chief Musiliu Kadri has been officially presented as the Olu-Epe elect following the death of Ọba Adewale, in line with Eko-Epe’s traditional succession process.
- Chief Jide Ikuforiji was removed from the Balogun stool in 2012 for misconduct and has since been excluded from community and council activities.
- The Eko-Epe traditional council reaffirmed that chieftaincy titles are not hereditary but based on community endorsement and established customs.
The traditional institution of Eko-Epe Kingdom has reaffirmed its cultural values and governance processes following the emergence of High Chief Musiliu Adeniyi Kadri as the Olu-Epe elect.
Ekohotblog reports that this succession, the council affirms, strictly follows the kingdom’s long-established Chieftaincy Declaration and customary practices.
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In a statement released to mark this year’s Democracy Day, the Eko-Epe traditional council emphasized that its system of Obaship and chieftaincy titles remains a structured, well-preserved tradition passed down through generations.
“The governance structure of Eko-Epe Chiefdom is not arbitrary. It flows from the Agbole (quarters), to the Adugbo (community), to the Council of Mogajis led by the Mogaji Ngeri, the traditional Prime Minister, and finally to the Olu-Epe on the throne,” the statement read.
According to the officially recognized Chieftaincy Declaration, when an Olu-Epe passes away, the Balogun, the next in rank is to be selected, presented, and installed by the Mogaji Ngeri as the Olu-Epe elect.
In line with this tradition, High Chief Musiliu Kadri, who had been serving as the Balogun of Epe, was presented by the Mogaji Ngeri as the Olu-Epe elect following the death of the late Ọba Adewale.
“The process is clear and unambiguous. The Balogun automatically becomes the next Olu-Epe. High Chief Musiliu Kadri has been fulfilling all the responsibilities of Balogun before the demise of the late king.
His emergence is legitimate and in full compliance with our tradition,” the Mogaji Ngeri affirmed.
The statement also addressed the long-standing issue concerning the removal of Chief Jide Ikuforiji, who was suspended in 2012 by the Olu-Epe in Council for misconduct, alongside his supporter, High Chief Wale Mogaji.
While the latter apologized and was pardoned, Chief Ikuforiji remained defiant.
“Chief Ikuforiji’s suspension was not only justified but properly communicated to the government. His continued absence from palace activities and refusal to take part in community functions confirmed his disengagement,” the council said.
The Mogajis of Bado-Oke, with the support of those from Bado-Isale and High Chief Ajiborisha, officially withdrew recognition of Chief Ikuforiji and nominated High Chief Musiliu Kadri to the Balogun stool, further establishing that chieftaincy titles in Eko-Epe are not hereditary but based on communal trust and performance.
Following his removal, Chief Ikuforiji reportedly approached the court to stop High Chief Musiliu Kadri from parading himself as Balogun. However, the court refused the request and directed the matter to proceed to full hearing. The case is still pending.
“Even the court acknowledged the need for proper legal procedures. Until then, the traditional council stands by its decision,” said a senior community elder.
Interestingly, Chief Ikuforiji himself rose to chieftaincy after the Mogajis of Bado-Oke removed his uncle, Chief Asuga, from the same position he once occupied, illustrating how the title is not a matter of inheritance but of merit and approval by the people.
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While acknowledging the dissatisfaction in some quarters over not retaining the Ajiborisha title, the traditional council urged all wards to embrace understanding and unity.
“This is a time for healing and collective progress. We must set aside bitterness, respect our customs, and move forward together. Epe’s strength is in its tradition and unity,” the statement concluded.
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