The Badagry Kingdom has been plunged into mourning following the death of its paramount ruler, His Royal Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry, who passed away at the age of 89. His death marks the end of nearly five decades of distinguished leadership in the historic coastal town.
Oba Menu-Toyi, a respected member of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, died on Monday after a brief illness.
During his 48-year reign, he earned widespread admiration as a custodian of culture, a unifying figure, and a tireless advocate for the growth and development of Badagry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu Pays Tribute
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State described the monarch’s passing as a profound loss, not only to the people of Badagry but to Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor praised Oba Menu-Toyi’s enduring legacy of wisdom, service, and cultural preservation.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the late monarch, who spent nearly 49 years on the throne, was widely respected for his commitment to tradition, unity, and progressive development.
“On behalf of my wife, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I commiserate with the people of Badagry, the royal 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 governor said.
He described Oba Akran as a stabilising force who united diverse interests within the kingdom and promoted Badagry’s historical sites and cultural festivals nationally and internationally, boosting tourism and fostering cultural exchange.
Sanwo-Olu also recalled the monarch’s background as a respected journalist and noted that, as a first-class traditional ruler, he made lasting contributions to the growth and development of his community, Lagos State, and the nation.
“He served as the custodian of Badagry’s traditions, customs, and cultural heritage for nearly five decades and used his position to attract growth and development to the ancient town,” the governor added.
He urged the royal family, traditional institutions, and the people of Badagry to honour the late monarch by preserving his legacy of selfless service, unity, and leadership.
“I pray that Almighty God grants the royal family, the people of Badagry Kingdom, and Lagos State the strength to bear this irreparable loss, and that He grants eternal rest to the soul of the departed monarch,” Sanwo-Olu said.
A Reign of Nearly Five Decades
Oba Menu-Toyi ascended the throne on April 23, 1977. Until his passing, he served as the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, playing a vital role in fostering harmony among traditional rulers across the state.
His death marks the end of an era in Badagry, leaving a legacy of cultural pride, unity, and progressive leadership that will be remembered for generations.
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