- Sanwo-Olu Leads Tribute as Badagry Bids Farewell to Akran
- Says Akran Was Symbol of Unity, Peace in Badagry
- Calls for Continuity of Legacy
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on residents of Badagry to preserve the legacy of the late Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, describing him as a symbol of unity, peace and enduring cultural heritage.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the governor made the call on Saturday during the funeral thanksgiving service held in honour of the late monarch at Freeman Memorial Methodist Cathedral.
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Sanwo-Olu said the late traditional ruler was “a constant, an unshakeable figure of unity, whose palace was always open to his people and whose voice was always measured, always just.”
The service was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Secretary to the State Government Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, political leaders, and residents of Badagry.
Following the service, the governor performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I Cultural Park, a project aimed at preserving the history and heritage of the Badagry Kingdom.
Addressing the people, Sanwo-Olu urged them not to allow grief overshadow the legacy left behind by the monarch.
“To the good people of Badagry, your Kabiyesi lived a life worthy of celebration. He gave you forty-eight years of peace… The best tribute you can offer is to continue his work, preserve your traditions, and uphold the heritage of this ancient land,” he said.
He noted that the late monarch’s reign, which spanned 48 years, remains the longest in Lagos State’s modern history, adding that his leadership was defined by wisdom, patience and incorruptibility.
“We celebrate a man whose love for his people was the compass by which he charted every decision. The people of Badagry often said, ‘We have not lost a king; we have lost a father,’” the governor added.
In his sermon, the Prelate Emeritus of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Sunday Ola Makinde, described the late monarch as a hospitable leader who served both God and his people faithfully until his death.
He also used the occasion to urge Nigerians to live purposeful lives, stressing that legacy is shaped by how individuals live and serve others.
The cleric further commended the Lagos State Government’s infrastructure strides, including rail projects and road development, while calling for sustained support for national development initiatives.
