Badagry LGA of Lagos State has announced a seven-day mourning period following the death of the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I.
Gatekeepers News reports that the declaration was made on Tuesday by the council chairman, Babatunde Hunpe, through his Chief Press Secretary, Austin Kriko. Hunpe said the decision was taken with the approval of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.
He said, “With the approval of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, I officially announce with profound sorrow, the passing of His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry Kingdom.”
Hunpe disclosed that the monarch died peacefully on Monday, January 12, after decades on the throne. He described the late traditional ruler as a symbol of unity who played a key role in promoting peace and preserving the cultural heritage of Badagry.
The council chairman said the mourning period would allow residents and indigenes to honour the life and legacy of the monarch, whose reign contributed to the stability and traditional leadership of the ancient town.
Hunpe said, “His Royal Majesty was more than a monarch; he was a living bridge between the past and the future, a revered custodian of tradition, a moral compass to his people.”
Condolences were extended to the royal family, the Council of Obas and Chiefs in Badagry, and the people of the community.
Reports say the late Akran reigned for nearly five decades, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in the Badagry kingdom.
