President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of the Akran of Badagry, Oba Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, also known as Babatunde Akran, who passed away on Monday at the age of 89.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with the government and people of Lagos State, describing the late monarch as a visionary ruler whose leadership was marked by unity, tolerance, and purposeful governance.
Tinubu also extended condolences to the Lagos State Traditional Council, where Oba Babatunde served as Permanent Vice Chairman, the Badagry Council of Chiefs, and the sons and daughters of the historic Badagry Kingdom. He acknowledged the monarch’s over four decades of dedicated leadership, which fostered peace, harmony, and prosperity among his people.
The President highlighted the late ruler’s contributions to preserving Badagry’s historical and cultural identity, including safeguarding the town’s heritage as a former slave port and promoting its global significance. He further praised the wisdom of Oba Babatunde and his council in balancing tradition with modern governance and managing multicultural interests within the kingdom.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Tinubu urged Nigerians to celebrate the monarch’s legacy, noting his career in education and journalism before ascending the throne, including roles at the West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria.
The President concluded by offering prayers for the repose of Oba Babatunde’s soul and comfort for his family and the people of Badagry, acknowledging the monarch’s long-standing impact within Lagos State’s traditional institutions, where he reigned for over 48 years.
