Former Lagos State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, says the history of Lagos will be incomplete without mentioning the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
DAILY POST recalls that the monarch, who is equally the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, joined his ancestors on Jan. 12 at the age of 89.
Speaking at the palace of the Akran during a condolence visit on Saturday, Adediran, the Visioner of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, described the late monarch as a symbol of peace and development in Badagry Division.
Adediran said the traditional ruler’s death marked the celebration of a fulfilled life devoted to humanity.
“I am here to commiserate with the family of our late royal father, the Akran of Badagry. As a member of this clan, we see this as a celebration of a life well spent.
“The Akran was more than a king. We cannot write the history of Lagos State without mentioning De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I. He recorded many firsts.
“He stood at the forefront of peace and development. Baba did a lot to preserve the throne and promote unity.
“He was not just an Oba but a father to all. He was a king for everybody in Lagos State, especially in Badagry Division,” he said.
According to Adediran, the late Akran’s contributions to Badagry and the state cannot be overemphasised.
He recalled the royal blessings he received from the late Akran during the build-up to the 2023 governorship election, noting that the traditional ruler’s impact will remain unforgettable.
Adediran commended both the federal and state governments for their interventions in Badagry but for more interventions to reposition the ancient town as Nigeria’s tourism hub.
He also applauded Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for approving the construction of a modern palace for the Akran of Badagry and some road projects during his condolence visit, describing the move as capable of transforming Badagry into “a mecca of sorts”.
Responding on behalf of the palace, Chief Antony Tose commended Adediran and his entourage, noting that the late Akran made remarkable contributions to the division and the state.
Tose also expressed support for Adediran’s governorship bid, saying it was time Badagry produced a governor of the state.
Similarly, Prince Adetunji Akran, the Olori-Ebi of the Akran family, appreciated the condolence visit.
Lagos history incomplete without late Akran of Badagry – Jandor
