The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the people of Badagry to preserve and uphold the enduring legacy of the late Oba Babatunde Akran, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the charge on Wednesday during the ninth day of spiritual prayers held in honour of the late monarch at the Akran’s Palace in Badagry, Lagos.
The prayer session was attended by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; members of the State Executive Council; serving and former public office holders; religious, traditional and political leaders; members of the royal family; and residents of Badagry.
The Governor described the late Oba Akran’s 49-year reign as impactful and well spent, noting that the monarch stood firmly for unity, togetherness and peace among his people. He said the values upheld by the late monarch should continue to guide the people of Badagry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also extended his condolences to the people of Badagry and the royal family, describing his presence at the event, alongside members of his cabinet, as both an honour and a moment of shared reflection with the community.
He assured that the Lagos State Government would continue to support the family of the late monarch and fulfil all promises made to the people of Badagry.
“The Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, stood for tradition and the rich cultural heritage that Badagry is known for,” the Governor said. “I want to advise the people of Badagry and Lagos to emulate the legacy the late monarch stood for so that peace will continue to reign in the town.
“Let us preserve the legacy and what the man stood for. It is for togetherness, unity and peace among his people. It is for our culture and tradition. We should ensure that we preserve all of our old, rich cultural heritage that Badagry is known for.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also promised the speedy construction of a new Badagry Central Palace, stating that contractors had already been directed to commence work on the project. He further assured residents that the second phase of the Market General Hospital Road construction to Ajido would soon begin.
“You can see all of the major roads, hospitals and schools that we have done here,” he said. “One of the new requests made today is the construction of a new befitting palace, which we are committed to because provision has already been made for it.
“Badagry will continue to remain peaceful and a place of pride for us, a place of joy and a destination where both local and international tourists will always want to connect with our rich history.”
Earlier, the Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, described the late Oba Akran as more than a traditional ruler, calling him a symbol of unity, peace, wisdom and cultural pride.
He said the monarch was a consistent advocate for the development of Badagry, noting that under his leadership, the town remained peaceful, with dialogue prevailing over conflict.
Hon. Hunpe also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for attending the prayer session, describing his presence as a demonstration of leadership rooted in empathy, compassion and respect for traditional institutions.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Olorunda Local Council Development Area, Hon. Ajose Peter Kumayon, described the late monarch as a promoter of culture who brought growth and development to Badagry by blending tradition with contemporary progress.
He said Oba Akran’s death was a great loss not only to Badagry but also to Lagos State and Nigeria, adding that the people of the kingdom would continue to cherish his nearly five decades of service as custodian of Badagry’s traditions and customs.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers and chiefs, the Vice Chairman of the Badagry Local Government Council of Aholus and Obas, HRM Saheed Adamson, the Aholu of Ajido Kingdom, said the reign of the late Akran was marked by wisdom and an unwavering commitment to peace and unity.
He noted that the late monarch played a key role in the approval of four traditional rulers in Badagry and ensured the proper reorganisation of grassroots leadership across the kingdom.
