The Chairman, Badagry Local Government Area, Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, on Tuesday evening, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi 1.

Aholu Menu-Toyi 1 died on Monday, January 12, at the age of 89 after 48 years on the throne.

Hunpe, who led the council management and councillors on the visit, was received by members of the royal family, the children of the late monarch, palace officials, and a cross section of Badagry indigenes gathered at the palace to mourn the revered traditional ruler.

In his condolence message, the chairman commiserated with the Akran family, the traditional council, and the entire people of Badagry over the loss.

The chairman described the late royal father as an accommodating, selfless, and dedicated traditional ruler whose reign was marked by wisdom and an unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and development of Badagry.

Hunpe reaffirmed the council’s solidarity with the traditional institution and the people of Badagry, and prayed that the legacies of the late ruler would continue to inspire unity and progress across the land.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the official condolence letter from the council was formally presented to the family of the late Akran by the Council Manager, Mrs Mary Olusanya.

NAN also reports that Prince Seyon Akran, the first born of the late Akran, received the letter on behalf of the family.

In his remarks, Prince Akran expressed appreciation to the Executive Chairman and the council for the support and solidarity shown during this period of mourning.

NAN reports that prayers were offered for the peaceful transition of the late Akran, who has joined his ancestors, and for comfort and strength for the royal family and the people of Badagry.

Hunpe was accompanied by Alhaji Akeem Adeyemi, the Vice Chairman, Mr Mautin Asokere, the Leader of the House, and other councillors

Also on the entourage were management staff including the Council Treasurer, Mr Olugbenga Hunponu; and others.

Also, Mr Samuel Ajose, Chief Executive Officer of SMA Foundation, on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to the Akran royal family in Badagry.

Speaking at the palace, Ajose described the traditional ruler’s death as a profound loss to Badagry and Lagos State.

“This is not the time Akran should have left us, but God knows better,” Ajose said.

He said the visit was to commiserate with the family and assure them of full support throughout the burial arrangements.

Ajose said the late traditional ruler’s 89th birthday celebration in 2025 remained a source of gratitude and comfort.

“We are not mourning alone; we are celebrating a life well lived and the impact he made,” he said.

Ajose described the Akran as a peaceful king, noting Badagry’s continued calm despite unrest elsewhere in the country.

“Our prayer is that the peace he left behind will continue to reign among us,” he said.

Responding, Prince Adeyemi Akran said losing a father was painful but urged people to celebrate his legacy.

“Today, I choose to celebrate rather than mourn. His legacy in Badagry and beyond gives us strength,” he said.

The late traditional ruler was a former journalist, judicial service commission member, and patron of several social and professional organisations.

(NAN)