Akran of Badagry dies at 89, Sanwo-Olu mourns

The paramount ruler of Badagry Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Akran (Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I), has passed away at the age of 89.

The monarch, who spent nearly 49 years on the throne, died on Monday, marking the end of a significant chapter in the history of the ancient town.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the late King, describing his death as a massive loss to the state's traditional institution.

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.

Governor Sanwo-Olu commiserated with the people of Badagry and the family of the late Oba Akran of Badagry, over the passage of the paramount ruler, saying his departure is a great loss to the traditional institution in the State.

He said: “On behalf of my wife, the government and people of Lagos, I commiserate with the people of Badagry, the deceased’s family, friends, associates and traditional institutions on the transition 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 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 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.

"He also used his position to attract growth and development to the ancient town. I urge his family, friends, subjects and associates, as well as the entire people of Badagry, whose interests the departed traditional ruler represented and worked tirelessly for during his lifetime, to work towards immortalising him.

“I pray that Almighty God be pleased with the soul of the late monarch and grant the royal family and the people of the Badagry kingdom and Lagos State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”