One of Nigeria’s longest serving monarchs, the Oba of Badagry, Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, has died at the age of 89, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Monday.
Oba Akran, who reigned for about 49 years, was also the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu described the monarch’s death as a major loss to Badagry, Lagos State and Nigeria.
He said the late monarch was widely respected for his leadership, commitment to preserving cultural heritage and efforts to promote the development of Badagry.
“On behalf of my wife, the government and people of Lagos State, I commiserate with the people of Badagry, the royal family and traditional institutions on the passing of the paramount ruler of Badagry Kingdom,” the statement said.
Sanwo-Olu said Oba Akran played a stabilising role within the kingdom, uniting diverse interests and promoting Badagry’s historical sites and cultural festivals, both locally and internationally, to support tourism and cultural exchange.
He added that the monarch, a first-class traditional ruler, served as custodian of Badagry’s customs and traditions for almost five decades and contributed to the town’s social and economic development.
The governor prayed for the repose of the monarch’s soul and asked for strength for the royal family and the people of Badagry Kingdom.
