By Our Reporter
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and residents of Badagry have mourned the death of the Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty Babatunde Akran (Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I), who passed away at the age of 89 after a brief illness.
The revered monarch, who was also the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, reigned for 48 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State. The palace confirmed that medical experts pronounced him dead, while traditional burial rites have since commenced.
Residents described his death as a profound loss, noting that Badagry has lost not only a traditional ruler but a father figure whose wisdom and leadership provided stability and reassurance over the decades.
In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the monarch’s passing as a major loss to Badagry, Lagos State, and Nigeria at large.
The governor praised the late Akran for his wisdom, commitment to cultural preservation, and advocacy for the development of Badagry. He said the monarch’s reign was marked by peace, unity, and significant contributions to tourism and cultural exchange within and beyond Nigeria.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I commiserate with the people of Badagry and the family of the late monarch on the transition of His Royal Majesty Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He urged the people of Badagry and the royal family to uphold and immortalise the late monarch’s legacy, while praying for divine comfort for all those affected by the loss.
Babatunde Akran ascended the throne on April 23, 1977. A former teacher and journalist, he served in various leadership capacities, including membership of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission, and was a patron and president of several social, professional, and charitable organisations. He is survived by his wives and children.