By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Lagos State Government has officially unveiled the transition programme for His Imperial Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I (OFR), the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom.
This was disclosed in a press briefing held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in Badagry, the state government declared a 10-day series of events to honour the iconic monarch, starting April 23, 2026.
The announcement was made by Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG) and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee. She emphasized that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is committed to providing a burial "befitting the stature and legacy" of the revered monarch.
The funeral rites are designed to blend traditional Ogu customs with modern state ceremonies. As the date is strategically chosen in remembrance of the day the Akran was crowned. The approved itinerary includes:
Day 1 (April 23): The "Ajogan" Royal Parade and traditional gun salutes across the eight quarters of Badagry, followed by a posthumous coronation documentary.
Day 2 & 3 (April 24-25): A novelty football match at Badagry Grammar School and a massive community sanitation and medical outreach.
Day 4 (April 26-28): Three days dedicated to traditional homage paid by market associations, business tycoons, and artisans.
Day 5 & 6 (April 29-30): Inspection of the proposed Badagry Central Palace site and a symbolic "Fitila Night" (Komiogban) procession by the youth.
Day 7 (May 1): Special Jumat service followed by the Akran Legacy Festival at the Badagry Marina.
Day 8 (May 2): The Main Event featuring an interdenominational service, foundation laying for the Aholu Menu-Toyi Park, and a grand reception featuring legendary artist Sagbohan Danialou.
Day 9 (May 3): Thanksgiving service and reception with performances by Young Stars and Ricos Campos.
Day 10 (May 6): The final traditional rites, including the esoteric Zangbeto procession and Oro rites across the kingdom.
Hon. Bonu Solomon Saanu, representing Badagry Constituency I in the Lagos House of Assembly, highlighted the Akran Legacy Festival as a pivotal part of the celebration.
"Baba did so much to liberate the youths. This festival is aimed at opening up the Badagry economy; it will be a three-day trade and entertainment hub. We call on all Badagrians, home and abroad, to join us," Hon. Bonu stated.
Mr. Adeyinka Amosu, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee, noted that the state-led involvement puts an end to months of uncertainty. He remarked that this historic celebration signals a new era of attention from the state government toward the Badagry division.
The late Akran, a distinguished journalist and traditional leader, was known for his peaceful reign and advocacy for the development of Badagry. The "Golden Jubilee" monarch’s passing marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria's most historic coastal kingdoms.