Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on the people of Badagry to honour the memory of the late Paramount Ruler, Oba Babatunde Akran, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, by upholding the peace, unity, and cultural integrity he championed for nearly half a century.
Speaking yesterday at the Akran’s palace during the ninth day of special prayers for the departed monarch, the governor described the late Akran’s 49-year reign as an era of stability and progress.
Akran, who served as the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, was a revered custodian of the ancient kingdom’s heritage.
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Sanwo-Olu, accompanied by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and members of the State Executive Council, emphasised that the best tribute to the monarch is the preservation of Badagry’s unique cultural identity.
“The Akran of Badagry stood for tradition and the rich cultural heritage that Badagry is known for,” the governor stated.
“I advise the people of Badagry and Lagos to emulate this legacy of togetherness so that peace will continue to reign. Let us ensure we preserve all of our old, rich cultural heritage.”
Sanwo-Olu committed to immortalizing the monarch’s reign through accelerated infrastructure development in the coastal town:
The governor revealed that contractors have been mobilized to begin the construction of a modern, befitting palace for the kingdom, with provisions already made in the state budget.
He assured residents that the second phase of the Market General Hospital road construction, extending to Ajido, would commence shortly.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated his vision to transform Badagry into a premier destination for both local and international tourists.
The governor assured the deceased’s family and the people of Badagry of the state government’s full support during this transition period, promising that all pledges made to the community would be fulfilled.
Local leaders and traditional rulers took turns to pay homage to the monarch’s impact.
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The Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Babatunde Hunpe, described the late Akran as a “voice of moderation” who ensured that dialogue always prevailed over conflict.
Similarly, Ajose Peter Kumayon, Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, noted that the monarch successfully bridged the gap between tradition and contemporary progress, attracting immense growth to the region during his tenure.
Representing the traditional institution, HRM Saheed Adamson, the Aholu of Ajido Kingdom, highlighted the late monarch’s role in reorganizing grassroots leadership and facilitating the approval of four additional traditional rulers in the axis to enhance local governance.
The prayer session was a high-profile gathering of religious, political, and traditional leaders, all unified in their commitment to ensuring that the “Land of Peace” continues to thrive in the post-Akran era.
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