The traditional ruler of the Badagry Kingdom, the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi, has died at the age of 89 after a brief illness.
The revered monarch and a leading voice within the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, reigned for over 48 years on the throne of the ancient town. According to the palace, the Akran was pronounced dead by medical experts, and traditional rites for his burial have gradually commenced.
Mourning the demise of the monarch, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, a copy made available to the press, the governor described the departure of Oba Akran as a great loss not only to the people of Badagry but also to Lagos and Nigeria at large because of his remarkable impact as a respected monarch in Nigeria.
He said the revered king, who was on the throne for nearly 49 years, is a traditional ruler known for his wisdom, cultural preservation, and advocacy for Badagry’s development, adding that he rendered selfless service to the people and left behind a legacy of unity, tradition, uplifting and modern development. “The death of Oba Akran is a great loss to the people of the ancient town of Badagry, and he will be greatly missed. He was a respected journalist. As a traditional ruler, he made positive impacts during his lifetime and contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of his community, Lagos State and Nigeria.
“Oba Akran, as a first-class traditional ruler, left a lasting legacy that the people of the Badagry Kingdom will continue to cherish. He served as the custodian of Badagry’s traditions, customs, and cultural heritage for nearly 49 years. He was a stabilising force known for uniting diverse interests within his kingdom and promoted Badagry’s historical sites and cultural festivals nationally and internationally, fostering tourism and cultural exchange.
The late monarch was also a prominent member of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, where he served as Permanent Vice Chairman, earning widespread respect for his leadership, calm disposition, and commitment to traditional institutions.
President Bola Tinubu has also expressed his condolences over the passing of the Akran of Badagry, describing the late monarch as a visionary and purposeful leader who served his people with distinction for more than four decades.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Traditional Council, the Badagry Council of Chiefs, as well as the sons and daughters of the historic kingdom, noting that the Oba played a critical role in preserving Badagry’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance while maintaining harmony, unity, and progress among his people. The statement read
“President Tinubu acknowledges the wisdom of the late traditional ruler and his council in maintaining a balance between modernity and tradition, managing multicultural interests, and ensuring the sanctity of various cultural icons for posterity.
The President urges an appreciation of the legacy of Oba Babatunde, who worked as a teacher for many years before venturing into journalism, where he made an impact while holding positions at West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria.
President Tinubu prays for the repose of the soul of the departed traditional ruler and comfort for his family.”
