Gani Adams Mourns Akran Of Badagry, Describes Him As Benevolent Leader

By Our Reporter 

Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has described the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry, as the end of an era of wise and benevolent leadership that greatly contributed to the unity, culture, and progress of Badagry and Nigeria at large.

Oba Akran, the Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the revered Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, joined his ancestors at the age of 89.

The Yoruba generalissimo, in a release made available to newsmen on Monday, expressed deep condolences to the people of Badagry, the Lagos State government and the entire country on the passing of the late monarch.

Adams, who said the news of Oba Akran's death deeply saddened him, noted that the late monarch's leadership and dedication to the cultural heritage and development of Badagry had left an indelible mark on the community. 

"His commitment to preserving the traditions and fostering unity among his people was truly exemplary and will be remembered with great admiration. 

"In this time of sorrow, we stand with the royal family, the Badagry Traditional Council, and all citizens of Badagry, sharing in their grief and loss. We pray that the Almighty grants strength and comfort to all affected by this profound loss," he said.

Adams prayed for repose of the soul of Oba Menu-Toyi I, and for the continued prosperity and harmony of Badagry.

He also prayed that the late monarch's legacy continues to inspire generations to come.

A frontline monarch and paramount ruler, the late Akran served as a member of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission from 1979 to 1983, and as Grand Patron, Patron, and President of various social, charitable, and professional organisations.

De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I  was the Chairman of the Chieftaincy Committee in Badagry Local Government and the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. 

In October 1990, he was elected by members of the Council to represent it at the enlarged National Council of States in Abuja.

The late monarch ascended the throne of his forebears during his coronation ceremony  on April 23, 1977. 

His appointment as the Akran of Badagry had initially been approved by the Executive Council of the Lagos State Government on October 7, 1976.