Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have paid tributes following the death of the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, describing him as a stabilising force and custodian of culture and tradition.
Tinubu extended condolences to the royal family and the people of Lagos State, praising the late monarch’s “visionary and purposeful leadership” and his commitment to preserving Badagry’s cultural heritage and historical identity.
Sanwo-Olu said Menu-Toyi’s passing represents a significant loss to Badagry, Lagos State and the nation, noting that the traditional ruler promoted unity, cultural pride and peaceful coexistence throughout his reign.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in a separate message, described the late Akran as a respected traditional institution who upheld the values of leadership, discipline and service to his people.
Other traditional rulers and community leaders across Lagos and the South-West also paid tributes, recalling the late monarch’s role in strengthening the council of traditional rulers and mentoring younger chiefs within the institution.
The palace announced Monday that the Akran died at age 89, ending a 48-year reign that began with his coronation in April 1977, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State.
Born on Sept. 18, 1936, Menu-Toyi began his career as a teacher in Badagry before moving into journalism in the early 1960s.
He worked with several newspapers, including West African Pilot, Daily Sketch and New Nigeria, where he rose to senior editorial positions.
He was appointed Akran by the Lagos State Executive Council in late 1976 and formally ascended the throne on April 23, 1977.
During his reign, he also served as permanent vice chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs and chaired the Badagry Chieftaincy Committee.
Traditional burial rites have commenced, palace sources said, with further details expected.
