Oba Akran of Badagry is dead

By Abiodun Ojo

Badagry had lost her traditional ruier, the Akran of Badagry.

He died at 89 years,palace sources told Irohinoodua on Monday.

Sources said the traditional rites for the burial of the king has commensed.

“We lost a great king who dedicated his life and time to the wellbeing and prosperity of his people,” the palace source said.

Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi, who died after a brief illness, one of the Palace Chiefs told Irohinoodua.

The Akran was one the oldest reigning kings in Nigeria having spent 48 years on the throne

The demise of the monarch marks the end of a remarkable 48-year reign on the throne, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State.

According to the palace, the Akran was pronounced dead by medical experts, and traditional rites for his burial have gradually commenced.

Residents of Badagry, who are currently mourning the loss of their revered monarch, described his death as a heavy blow, noting that the town has lost not just a king but a father figure whose wisdom, counsel and presence brought reassurance in moments of uncertainty.

As of press time, the Lagos State Government was yet to issue an official statement on the development.

He attended St. Gregory’s College, Obalende, and later graduated from King’s College. He joined the Postal Telegraph Department in 1926, where he worked until 1947. Following his father’s passing in 1946, Akran was appointed head of the Jegba quarter in 1948 and later ascended as the Akran of Badagry in 1950.45 mins ago