President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Akran of Badagry, Oba Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, describing his death as the loss of a custodian of history and a bridge between tradition and modern Nigerian society. Oba Menu-Toyi, also known as Babatunde Akran, passed away on Monday at the age of 89, ending a reign that spanned over four decades in one of Nigeria’s most historically significant coastal communities.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commiserated with the Lagos State Government, residents, and the Lagos State Traditional Council, where the late monarch served as Permanent Vice Chairman. He also extended sympathies to the Badagry Council of Chiefs and the indigenes of the ancient kingdom.
The president highlighted Oba Menu-Toyi’s commitment to peace, inclusiveness, and social cohesion, noting that his leadership helped Badagry thrive as a multicultural community. Tinubu praised the monarch for preserving Badagry’s historical identity, especially its significance in the transatlantic slave trade, and for balancing traditional governance with modern administrative structures.
Reflecting on his personal journey, the president noted that before ascending the throne, Oba Babatunde had a career as a teacher and journalist, contributing to outlets such as West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria. Tinubu concluded by praying for the repose of the late monarch’s soul and asking for strength for his family and the people of Badagry during this period of mourning.
