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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the Government and people of Lagos State following the death of Oba Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I and Oba of Badagry, who passed away at the age of 89.
In a statement by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commiserated with the Lagos State Traditional Council—where the late Oba served as permanent Vice Chairman—the Badagry Council of Chiefs, and the sons and daughters of the historic kingdom.
The President hailed Oba Babatunde’s over 40 years of “visionary and purposeful leadership,” which fostered harmony, tolerance, unity, and prosperity among his people. He particularly praised the monarch’s efforts in safeguarding Badagry’s rich historical legacy as a former slave harbor and route, while promoting its cultural heritage that draws global interest.
Tinubu commended the Oba’s wisdom in balancing modernity with tradition, managing multicultural interests, and preserving cultural icons for future generations. Before ascending the throne, Oba Babatunde worked as a teacher and later distinguished himself in journalism at outlets including West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria.
The President appreciated the legacy of Oba Babatunde, praying for the repose of his soul and comfort for his family.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described his passing as a painful loss to Badagry, the state and the nation at large.
In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, the governor said the Oba’s transition marked the end of an era defined by wisdom, cultural preservation and unwavering commitment to the development of Badagry.
The revered traditional ruler, a prominent member of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, died on Monday after a brief illness.
He reigned as the Akran of the ancient Badagry Kingdom for nearly 49 years.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the late Akran was not only a custodian of tradition but also a bridge between heritage and modern development.
He added that his influence extended beyond Badagry to Lagos State and Nigeria at large.
According to the governor, the traditional ruler rendered selfless service to his people and left behind a legacy of unity, peace and progress.
He described the traditional ruler as a stabilising force who brought together diverse interests within the kingdom.
He added that the late Akran consistently promoted Badagry’s rich historical sites and cultural festivals, both nationally and internationally, thereby boosting tourism and cultural exchange.
“The Akran, Oba Babatunde Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, was the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He added that the late Oba, who was also a respected journalist, made remarkable contributions to the growth and development of his community and used his position as a first-class traditional ruler to attract development to the ancient town.
Sanwo-Olu urged the royal family, subjects and the entire people of Badagry to immortalise the late Akran by upholding the values he stood for and sustaining his vision for unity and progress.
He prayed that God would grant the royal family, the people of Badagry Kingdom and Lagos State the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
A royal figure of many parts, the late Akran was initially a teacher and taught in various schools within the Badagry Division.
His appointment as the Akran of Badagry was approved by the Executive Council of the Lagos State Government on October 7, 1976.
He ascended the throne of his forebears during a coronation ceremony held on April 23, 1977, where he was crowned and assumed the royal title De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, in accordance with tradition
Two traditional rulers in Badagry, have paid tribute to the late monarch.
In his condolence message, Oba Oladele Kosoko, Oniworo of Iworo Kingdom, Badagry, said the demise of the Akran, an Illustrious son and visionary traditional ruler marked the end of an era.
According to him, an era defined by the Akran’s unwavering commitment to peace, progress and preservation of Badagry ‘s rich cultural heritage.
“Baba Akran was more than a traditional ruler; he was a father figure to many in Badagry Kingdom, a unifying force and a beacon of wisdom.
“His reign brought unprecedented development and stability to his domain.
“His contributions to the socio-economic and traditional advancement of Badagry Kingdom will forever be etched in our hearts.
“As we mourn his transition, we find solace in the fact that his legacy of service, compassion and leadership will continue to inspire members of Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs,” he said.
Also in his message, Oba Sheriff Bello, the Onigbanko of Igbanko kingdom, Badagry, extended his condolences to the royal family on the transition of the revered traditional ruler.
“The passing of the Akran of Badagry marks the end of a glorious era defined by wisdom, dignity, and unwavering commitment to tradition and peaceful coexistence.
“He was not only a custodian of Badagry’s rich cultural heritage but also a respected voice within the traditional institution in Lagos state and beyond.
“His reign embodied royal discipline, unity, and a deep sense of responsibility to his people.
“As a fellow traditional ruler, I recognise the profound vacuum his departure left, not only within the Badagry Kingdom but across the council of Obas and Chiefs.
“His counsel, calm leadership, and dedication to cultural preservation will be deeply missed.
“In this moment of grief, Igbanko Kingdom stands in solidarity with the Akran family and the entire Badagry community.
“May the Almighty grant the royal family and the people the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and may the soul of the departed Akran rest in perfect peace,” he said.
