The ancient town of Badagry has been thrown into mourning following the passing of its foremost traditional ruler, the Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, who died in Lagos State at the age of 89.
The highly respected monarch, popularly referred to as Oba Akran, passed on Monday, the 12th of January, 2026, after battling a short illness.
His demise marks the end of an extraordinary era, as he ruled for close to fifty years, a tenure that places him among the longest-reigning traditional leaders in Lagos State.
Oba Menu-Toyi I became king on the 23rd of April, 1977, following the approval granted by the Lagos State Executive Council in 1976, ascending the throne as the 17th Akran of Badagry.
During his 48 years on the throne, he earned widespread admiration as a pillar of stability, providing guidance and continuity to Badagry and surrounding communities.
Born on the 18th of September, 1936, the late monarch had an accomplished career before assuming royal responsibilities.
He started his working life in the education sector, teaching in several schools within the Badagry Division, before transitioning into journalism.
His media career saw him work with prominent national newspapers such as West African Pilot, Daily Sketch and New Nigeria, where he eventually served as Acting News Editor (South).
These experiences in education and journalism greatly influenced his approach to leadership, fostering open communication, inclusive governance and a strong focus on community advancement.
At the state level, Oba Menu-Toyi I was deeply involved in traditional administration, notably serving as the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
His contributions to national development were formally acknowledged in 1981 when he received the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). He also earned several honorary distinctions, including a Doctor of Laws (LL.D) honoris causa.
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Throughout his reign, the monarch championed peace, unity and economic growth in Badagry, a town celebrated for its historic role as a former slave port, a hub of early missionary work, and the cradle of Western education and Christianity in Nigeria.
Residents and palace sources have described him as a humane and fatherly figure whose wisdom and timely interventions helped the community navigate challenging moments.
According to confirmation from the Akran Palace, medical authorities officially declared the monarch dead, and traditional burial ceremonies have since begun in accordance with established customs.
As at the time this report was compiled, the Lagos State Government had not released an official reaction, but an outpouring of tributes is anticipated from political leaders, traditional institutions and citizens across Badagry and beyond.