By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Akran of Badagry Kingdom |
LAGOS, Nigeria — The ancient coastal city of Badagry and the entire Lagos State traditional institution have been plunged into mourning following the transition of the Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I. The highly respected monarch passed away at the age of 89 following a brief illness.
The news of his demise has sent shockwaves through the kingdom, marking the sunset of a historic 48-year reign. Ascending the throne in 1977, the Akran was celebrated as one of the longest-serving and most influential traditional rulers in Lagos State, acting as a vital custodian of Egun culture and a bridge between the ancient city’s colonial past and its modern development.
Traditional Rites Begin in Badagry
Palace sources confirmed that the monarch was pronounced dead by medical experts after his health declined. In accordance with the deep-rooted customs of the Badagry Kingdom, traditional burial rites have already commenced. These sacred ceremonies are expected to last for several days as the community prepares to bid a final farewell to their paramount ruler.
A Father Figure to the Kingdom
Residents of Badagry have described the loss as a "heavy blow" to the socio-cultural fabric of the town. Known for his calm demeanor and intellectual depth having had a successful career in journalism before his coronation the Akran was widely regarded as a father figure.
"We haven't just lost a king; we have lost a compass," shared one local community leader. "His wisdom and counsel were the stabilizing forces that saw Badagry through decades of change."
Awaiting Official State Recognition
During his nearly five decades on the throne, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I was a staunch advocate for the development of Badagry as a tourism hub and a peaceful border community. While the palace has initiated the necessary protocols, the **Lagos State Government** is expected to issue a formal tribute and statement regarding the transition of the first-class monarch in the coming hours.
The Akran’s legacy remains etched in the transformation of Badagry from a quiet historical site into a blossoming center for commerce and culture in West Africa.