An Annual Homecoming of Pride, History, and Unity
Each year, shortly after the Eid-el-Fitr celebration marking the end of Ramadan, the ancient town of Epe in Lagos State erupts in colour, rhythm, and heritage as sons and daughters gather to celebrate the Epe Ojude Oba Day—a unique cultural festivity that blends Islamic tradition, royal homage, and communal pride.
But unlike the more commonly known Ojude Oba of Ijebu Ode, Epe’s version is deeply rooted in its own exceptional history—a history that reflects the early introduction and acceptance of Islam in the region, likely before many other parts of Yorubaland. Oral records suggest that Islam found fertile ground in Epe due to its strategic coastal location and openness to trans-Saharan and trans-Atlantic cultural exchanges. According to Dr. Ganiyu Akinola, a Lagos-based historian, “Epe embraced Islam as far back as the 18th century, and its integration with the town’s cultural and royal institutions shaped its identity till today.”
Today, the Ojude Oba celebration in Epe is more than a religious or cultural event. It is a grand homecoming—a rallying point for descendants, dignitaries, and well-wishers to reconnect with their roots, pay homage to the Oba of Epe, and honour the enduring legacy of illustrious sons and daughters who built the foundation of modern Epe.
TRAILBLAZERS OF EPE: ICONS WHO MADE HISTORY
Epe is not just a scenic town on the edge of the Lagos Lagoon; it is the birthplace of greatness—home to some of Nigeria’s most outstanding industrialists, entrepreneurs, and patriots.
One of the most legendary names associated with Epe is Israel Adebajo, a visionary industrialist, philanthropist, and sports pioneer. Adebajo & his wife Irene founded Stationery Stores FC, Nigeria’s first indigenous professional soccer club, which would go on to become a household name, winning all major football trophies in the country. His legacy transcends sports—he established Nigeria’s first and largest toilet roll manufacturing plant, a paper converting industry, and Stationery Stores Ltd, which was a one-stop hub for business stationery, office furniture, and publishing needs.
In an inspiring continuation of his legacy, his daughter, Princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser MFR, became the first female in the world to preside over a top male professional football club, carrying the Adebajo name into new frontiers of leadership and gender representation. She has scored a few firsts in the field of Agriculture, Aviation, Oil & Gas etc.
“The Epe spirit is one of quiet excellence and generational impact. My father taught us that true success is building legacies that empower others. That is what Epe stands for—and what Ojude Oba celebrates.”
— Princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser, MFR
Another name carved into Epe’s industrial tapestry is Chief Adebowale, founder of the Adebowale Group, which assembled and distributed home appliances, fans, and electrical equipment that lit up Nigerian homes in the 80s and 90s.
There was also Obagun, the founder of Onward Paper Mills, Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of paper products including exercise books, envelopes, and packaging materials. His factories helped drive Nigeria’s education and commercial sectors at a time when import dependency was the norm.
The town also produced Chief S.L. Edu, a distinguished politician, businessman, and environmentalist who co-founded the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), and made immense contributions to national development.
Chief Michael Otedola the former Lagos State Governor from 1992 to 1993 was an indigene of Epe. Dapo Sarunmi, former Federal Minister of Communications was an indigene of Epe.
Modern names like Femi Otedola, billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist, and Hon Tunde Salau, respected politician, also trace their roots to this blessed town.
EPE: LAND OF PROSPERITY AND PRIDE
Beyond its storied sons and daughters, Epe is a strategic economic and cultural node in Lagos State. The town hosts the Epe Fish Market, one of the largest in West Africa, and has been designated for several key infrastructural investments including educational and maritime facilities.
According to the Lagos State Government’s 2024 Development Review, over ₦30 billion worth of investments are currently channelled into road expansion, educational institutions, and tourism infrastructure in Epe alone—showing the growing significance of this historical town in Lagos’ megacity vision.
WHY OJUDE OBA MATTERS – A CALL TO HOMECOMING
The Epe Ojude Oba Day is more than festivity; it is an invitation to reconnect with legacy, a moment to relive the glory of those who made Epe great, and a clarion call for the next generation to step up.
As Princess Gloria Adebajo-Fraser, MFR, further reflects:
> “Epe is a symbol of what’s possible when tradition, enterprise, and leadership meet. Ojude Oba is not just our culture—it’s our future calling us home.”
Let this year’s celebration be a renewed commitment by Epe indigenes in the diaspora to return, reinvest, and rebuild. The town’s story is not over. It’s only beginning a new chapter.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT EPE OJUDE OBA
Date: Annually during Eid-el-Fitr period
Attendance: Estimated over 30,000 participants yearly
Economic Impact: Estimated ₦500 million annual local economic boost
Historical Roots: Dates back to early Islamic integration in Epe
Signature Features: Horseback processions, regalia, masquerade displays, royal homage, and community awards
From Lagos to London, Ibadan to Illinois, the Epe story is your story. Come home to celebrate it. Come home to shape it. Come home to Ojude Oba Epe.
Headlinenews.news Special report
