The Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, has declared a seven-day mourning period following the death of the Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
Hunpe made the announcement in Badagry through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Kriko Augustine, in a statement issued on Tuesday.
“With the approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, I officially announce with profound sorrow the passing of His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry Kingdom,” he said.
According to Hunpe, the revered monarch passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, after what he described as a long, illustrious, dignified and impactful reign dedicated to peace, unity and the preservation of Badagry’s rich cultural heritage.
He described the late Akran as a living bridge between the past and the future, a respected custodian of tradition and a moral compass to his people.
“In solemn recognition of the life, service and enduring legacy of our revered monarch and paramount ruler, I hereby declare seven days of mourning, during which the people of Badagry are enjoined to reflect on his selfless leadership, timeless values and lifelong devotion to Badagry Local Government, Lagos State and Nigeria at large,” Hunpe stated.
He extended condolences to the Council of Obas and Chiefs in Badagry Local Government and Lagos State, the royal family and the entire people of Badagry.
Dip Connect Online News reports that former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s death.
Sanwo-Olu described the passing of the late Akran as a painful loss to Badagry, Lagos State and the nation. In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, the governor said the monarch’s death marked the end of an era characterised by wisdom, cultural preservation and unwavering commitment to the development of Badagry.
Until his death, Menu-Toyi, who ascended the throne on April 23, 1977, served as the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. He reigned for nearly 49 years.
Elijah Adeyemi
