Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed grief over the passing of the Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Babatunde Akran, popularly known as Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
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Reports indicate that the esteemed monarch, who reigned for nearly five decades, died at the age of 89.
In a condolence message released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the monarch’s death as a profound loss to Badagry, Lagos State, and the nation.
Sanwo-Olu said the late Oba Akran was widely respected for his wisdom, devotion to cultural heritage and commitment to the social and economic advancement of Badagry.
According to the governor, the monarch’s reign was marked by selfless leadership, unity and a deep respect for tradition, values that helped shape the stability and progress of the ancient coastal town.
Sanwo-Olu extended his sympathies to the people of Badagry and the royal family, noting that the monarch’s passing represents a major setback for the traditional institution in Lagos State.
“On behalf of my wife, the government and the people of Lagos State, I sympathise with the people of Badagry Kingdom, the royal family, friends, associates and traditional institutions on the passing of the Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu noted that Oba Akran, who also had a distinguished career in journalism, made enduring contributions to the development of Badagry, Lagos State and Nigeria.
He described the late monarch as a first-class traditional ruler and custodian of Badagry’s customs and cultural values, whose leadership helped harmonise diverse interests within the kingdom.
The governor added that Oba Akran played a key role in promoting Badagry’s historical landmarks and cultural festivals both locally and internationally, boosting tourism and cultural exchange, while also leveraging his position to attract development to the area.
He called on the people of Badagry to honour and immortalise the late monarch in recognition of his outstanding service and legacy.
Sanwo-Olu also prayed for divine strength and comfort for the royal family, the people of Badagry Kingdom and Lagos State as they mourn the loss of the revered traditional ruler.
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