Tinubu commiserated with the Lagos State Government and residents of the state, as well as the Lagos State Traditional Council, where the late monarch served as Permanent Vice Chairman.
President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Akran of Badagry, Oba Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, describing his passing as the loss of a custodian of history and a bridge between tradition and modern Nigerian society.
Oba Menu-Toyi I, also known as Babatunde Akran, died on Monday at the age of 89, ending a reign that spanned more than four decades in one of Nigeria’s most historically significant coastal communities.
In a condolence message issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the monarch’s influence extended far beyond the palace, noting that his leadership helped shape social cohesion and cultural consciousness in Badagry.
Tinubu commiserated with the Lagos State Government and residents of the state, as well as the Lagos State Traditional Council, where the late monarch served as Permanent Vice Chairman.
He also extended condolences to the Badagry Council of Chiefs and indigenes of the ancient kingdom.
According to the President, the monarch’s reign was defined by peace and inclusiveness, attributes that helped Badagry thrive as a multicultural community.
“President Tinubu affirms that the traditional ruler provided visionary and purposeful leadership over his domain for more than 40 years, leaving a track record of harmony, tolerance, unity and prosperity among his people,” the statement partly read.
Beyond governance, Tinubu underscored the monarch’s role in preserving Badagry’s identity as a site of global historical importance, particularly its place in transatlantic slave trade history.
“The President notes the efforts of Oba Babatunde in protecting, preserving and projecting the historical significance of Badagry Kingdom, a former slave harbour and route, and the rich cultural heritage that continues to attract global attention."
The president also acknowledged how the monarch and his council navigated leadership in a diverse society, ensuring continuity of tradition while embracing modern governance structures.
“President Tinubu acknowledges the wisdom of the late traditional ruler and his council in maintaining a balance between modernity and tradition, managing multicultural interests, and ensuring the sanctity of various cultural icons for posterity,” the statement continued.
Reflecting on the late monarch’s personal journey, Tinubu highlighted his professional background outside royalty, describing it as a testament to a life devoted to service even before ascending the throne.
“The President urges an appreciation of the legacy of Oba Babatunde, who worked as a teacher for many years before venturing into journalism, where he made an impact while holding positions at West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria,” the statement added.
Tinubu concluded by praying for the repose of the monarch’s soul and asking for strength for his family and the people of Badagry as they mourn the passing of a ruler he described as both a leader and a historian of his people.