Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Babatunde Akran, also known as Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
The highly respected monarch, who reigned for close to five decades, died at the age of 89, marking the end of an era in the ancient coastal town of Badagry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the death of Oba Akran as a profound loss not only to Badagry Kingdom but also to Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. He said the late monarch’s wisdom, leadership, and commitment to cultural values would be greatly missed.
In a condolence message released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the governor praised Oba Akran’s long and impactful reign, which he said brought unity, peace, and steady development to Badagry.
“The passing of Oba Babatunde Akran is a great loss to Badagry Kingdom, Lagos State, and the nation,” Sanwo-Olu said. “He was a revered traditional ruler whose life was defined by service, wisdom, and dedication to the growth of his people.”
According to the governor, Oba Akran was widely respected for his deep knowledge of tradition, strong moral values, and commitment to the social and economic advancement of Badagry. He noted that the monarch’s leadership helped preserve the rich cultural heritage of the town while also opening it up for development.
Oba Akran ascended the throne nearly 50 years ago and became one of the longest-reigning traditional rulers in Lagos State. Throughout his reign, he was known for his calm nature, ability to mediate disputes, and strong belief in dialogue and unity.
Sanwo-Olu said the monarch ruled with a deep sense of responsibility and selflessness, always placing the interest of his people above personal gain.
“His reign was marked by peace, unity, and respect for tradition,” the governor said. “These values helped shape the stability and progress that Badagry has enjoyed over the years.”
The governor extended his condolences to the royal family, traditional institutions, and the entire people of Badagry Kingdom, describing Oba Akran’s death as 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,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Beyond his role as a traditional ruler, Oba Akran also had a distinguished career in journalism before ascending the throne. Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that this background helped shape his broad outlook on governance, communication, and public service.
“He brought his experience as a journalist into traditional leadership, which helped him engage with people from all walks of life,” the governor said. “This made him a bridge between tradition and modern society.”
The late monarch was described as a first-class traditional ruler and a true custodian of Badagry’s customs and cultural values. According to the governor, Oba Akran played a crucial role in harmonising the diverse interests within the kingdom, ensuring peaceful coexistence among various communities.
Badagry, one of Nigeria’s oldest towns, is known for its rich history, especially its role in the transatlantic slave trade and early contact with Western education and Christianity. Over the years, Oba Akran worked closely with government authorities and cultural groups to preserve these historical landmarks.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the monarch was passionate about promoting Badagry’s historical sites, festivals, and cultural identity to the world.
“Oba Akran played a key role in promoting Badagry’s historical landmarks and cultural festivals both locally and internationally,” the governor said. “His efforts helped boost tourism and cultural exchange, bringing attention and development to the area.”
Under his leadership, Badagry gained increased recognition as a major cultural and tourism destination in Lagos State. Many of the town’s annual festivals and heritage events received renewed attention and support, helping to preserve the town’s identity for future generations.
The governor also acknowledged that the late monarch used his influence to attract government presence and development projects to Badagry, which had long complained of neglect due to its distance from central Lagos.
Residents and community leaders have described Oba Akran as a father figure who always stood for peace and fairness. Many recall his role in settling disputes, supporting education, and encouraging youth development in the kingdom.
Sanwo-Olu called on the people of Badagry to honour the late monarch by preserving his legacy and continuing the values he stood for.
“I urge the people of Badagry to honour and immortalise our departed royal father in recognition of his outstanding service and legacy,” the governor said.
He also prayed for strength and comfort for the royal family and the entire Badagry community as they mourn the loss of their revered king.
“I pray that God grants the royal family, the people of Badagry Kingdom and Lagos State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Sanwo-Olu added.
The death of Oba Babatunde Akran has drawn tributes from across Lagos State and beyond, with many traditional rulers, political leaders, and residents acknowledging his contribution to peace, culture, and development.
As Badagry prepares to lay its monarch to rest, many see his passing as the end of a significant chapter in the town’s history. However, his legacy of service, unity, and respect for tradition is expected to live on for generations.
For Lagos State, the loss of Oba Akran represents the passing of a respected voice within the traditional council, a leader whose wisdom and experience contributed to harmony between traditional institutions and modern governance.
As tributes continue to pour in, Oba Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, will be remembered as a symbol of stability, cultural pride, and dedicated service to Badagry Kingdom and Nigeria at large.