By: Manoah Kikekon
 |
| Chief Deji Wale and Yime Akran |
BADAGRY, LAGOS — The Lagos State chapter of Afenifere, the foremost Yoruba socio-cultural organization, paid a high-level condolence visit to the royal palace of the Akran of Badagry to mourn the passing of His Imperial Majesty, De-Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
Led by the State Chairman, Chief Deji Wale, on Tuesday, March 17th 2026, the delegation represented the national leadership of the group in honoring a monarch they described as a pillar of humility and regional development.
During the visit, which was mandated by the group’s leadership under Chief Reuben Fasoranti , Chief Wale emphasized that the late Akran was not just a traditional ruler but a visionary who transformed Badagry during his nearly 49-year reign. The monarch, who ascended the throne in April 1977 as the 19th Akran of Badagry, was praised for his "unusual poise, candor, and dignity" in traditional rulership.
"The Akran was a man who loved his people and reigned with immense humility. The significant development he brought to Badagry is a legacy we believe must be sustained for future generations," Chief Wale stated during the presentation of the official condolence letter.
The official message from Afenifere highlighted the Akran's role as a Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. The group noted that his influence extended far beyond Ogu land, impacting the broader Yoruba socio-political landscape and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Before his ascension to the throne, the monarch was a distinguished journalist, art curator, and cultural icon. Afenifere credited him with working tirelessly toward the inclusion and preservation of Ogu traditions even beyond the borders of Nigeria, cementing his status as a global cultural ambassador.
In line with Yoruba tradition, which views royal fathers as "Igbakeji Orisha" (second only to the gods), the organization noted that the King has simply moved to a higher realm to continue interceding for his people.
The delegation offered prayers for: Communal Harmony: Maintaining the religious and social peace that characterized his reign. Succession: Wisdom for the Royal Council in navigating this transition. Cultural Preservation: Ensuring the Ogu traditions remain vibrant in the South-West geopolitical zone.