By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Seyon Akran and Mr. Dele Balogun |
BADAGRY, LAGOS — In a demonstration of solidarity and reverence, members of the prestigious De Like Minds Elite Club of Badagry paid a historic visit to the palace of the Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty, Aholu Menu-Toyi I, this past Sunday.
The visit was organized to celebrate the monumental impact of the paramount ruler and to reaffirm the club’s commitment to the progress of the Badagry Kingdom. As the community reflects on the King's decades of service, the group hailed the Akran as a transformative leader whose influence stretched far beyond the borders of Lagos State, reaching the national stage of Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the club, the Vice President, Mr. Dele Balogun, highlighted the pivotal role De Like Minds Elite Club plays as a pressure group and a beacon of humanitarian support. He emphasized that the club's core mission is "moving Badagry forward and Lagos as a whole."
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Sharing a deeply personal testimony, Balogun recalled how the Akran’s support changed his life, noting that a recommendation letter from the monarch secured him professional employment and opened doors to several other life-changing opportunities. "Baba has left a remarkable legacy; there is nowhere you will go in Badagry regarding development where you won’t see his hand," Balogun remarked.
The delegation included a distinguished lineup of club officials and elders, including Samuel Igbowu (General Secretary), Ajape Abdulahi (Financial Secretary), Sesan Ogunlola (Welfare Officer), and Miss Seun Akinbobola. The Board of Trustees was also well-represented by Barrister Stephen Whenu (BOT Chairman), Bisi Yusuf (Vice Chairman, BOT), Dosu Basil Sejiro (BOT Secretary), and Alhaji Akeem Ayeola.
Together, they stood in the hallowed halls of the palace to honor a man they described as a conqueror who effectively navigated the complexities of traditional leadership to bring peace and growth to his people.
In a final charge to the residents and the royal family, the club urged the people of Badagry to emulate the Akran’s virtues and continue the work he started. "To the people of Badagry, I want us to emulate Baba and continue from where he stopped his good deeds," the Vice President stated, further encouraging the royal family to remain united as one.