The traditional ruler of Badagry, Oba of Badagry, Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, has passed on.
He died on January 12, at the age of 89. He reigned for almost five decades. He was a journalist before he ascended the throne. He was one of the longest ruling traditional ruler in Lagos State.
President Bola Tinubu has extended condolences to the Government and people of Lagos State over the passing of the respected monarch.
He commiserated with the Lagos State Traditional Council, of which the late Oba Babatunde was the permanent Vice Chairman, the Badagry Council of Chiefs, sons and daughters of the historic and revered kingdom.
The President affirmed that the traditional ruler provided visionary and purposeful leadership over his domain for more than 40 years, leaving a track record of harmony, tolerance, unity and prosperity among his people.
He noted the efforts of Oba Akran in protecting, preserving and projecting the historical significance of Badagry Kingdom, a former slave harbour and route, and the rich cultural heritage that continues to attract global attention.
President Tinubu acknowledged 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.
He urged an appreciation of the legacy of Oba Akran, 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 prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed traditional ruler and comfort for his family.
Also, Oba Olatunji Ogabi (JP), the Ajagun of Imeke Kingdom in Badagry, has joined other residents of Badagry Division in mourning the transition of the Akran of Badagry.
In his condolence message, Ogabi said as fellow traditional ruler in the historic Badagry axis, he recognised the immense void left by the late traditional ruler.
He said that the late Akran’s reign exemplified selfless leadership, fostering unity among the Egun, Awori, and diverse communities, while preserving Badagry’s rich heritage as a former slave port, cradle of Western education, and early center of Christianity in Nigeria.
“As Akran, he served as a stabilising force, promoting peace, socio-economic progress, and conflict resolution across Badagry and its environs. He was a compassionate father figure whose wise counsel guided generations through challenges.
“At the state level, his role as Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos Council of Obas and Chiefs amplified his impact, advocating for cultural preservation, inter-ethnic harmony, and development in the state,” he said.
The traditional ruler extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the Akran Palace, the people of Badagry Kingdom, and all who cherished the late Akran.
“May the ancestors receive him with open arms, and may his legacy of peace, enlightenment, and service continue to inspire traditional rulers and communities across Awori and beyond. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he added.
Similarly, Mr Akinyemi Ashade, the former Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, in his message said he joined the royal family, the traditional institution, and the entire Badagry Kingdom in mourning the monarch.
According to him, the stool of the Akran of Badagry is one of the oldest and most respected traditional institutions in Lagos State, symbolising authority, continuity, and the rich historical identity of Badagry as an ancient coastal kingdom.
“Over generations, the Akran has served as the guardian of culture, diplomacy, and communal harmony. Aholu Menu-Toyi upheld this sacred legacy with uncommon dignity, wisdom, and restraint, strengthening unity within the kingdom and earning deep respect beyond its shores.
“His reign reflected stability, cultural pride, and principled leadership, making him a moral compass not only for Badagry but for the wider traditional institution in Lagos State. His passing marks the end of an era, yet his footprints on history remain enduring and instructive.”
Ashade also prayed that the Almighty grants the royal family strength and comfort, and that the soul of the departed traditional rests in eternal peace.
In the same vein, Chief Samuel Ajose, the Chief Executive Officer, Samuel Mauyon Ajose (SMA) Foundation extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the heirs of the throne, and all members of the Badagry community on the death of Akran.
Ajose said the late Akran was an exceptional custodian of tradition, culture, and values.
“His decades-long reign was characterised by wisdom, dignity, and a steadfast commitment to unity and progress. Beyond Badagry, his influence and counsel resonated across Lagos State and Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. While his passing marks the end of an era, his legacy of leadership, cultural preservation, and service will continue to inspire generations,” he said.
He prayed for strength for the royal family and the people of Badagry and for eternal rest for our revered monarch.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Akran describing his demise as a painful loss to Badagry, Lagos State and the nation at large.
(NAN)
