Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has called on the people of Badagry to consciously uphold the values, peace, and cultural heritage exemplified by the late #Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, describing the monarch’s reign as a defining era in the kingdom’s modern history.

The governor made the call during the ninth-day spiritual prayers held at the Akran’s Palace in Badagry, an event that drew a large convergence of political leaders, traditional rulers, members of the royal family, religious leaders, and residents of the ancient town.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who attended alongside Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat and members of the State Executive Council, described the late monarch as a stabilising force whose nearly five decades on the throne were marked by unity, tolerance, and deep respect for tradition.

“The Akran stood firmly for togetherness, peace and cultural identity. Badagry must continue to reflect those values so that harmony will always prevail,” the governor said during his address.

He expressed condolences to the royal family and the entire Badagry Kingdom, adding that his presence and that of senior state officials was a mark of respect for an institution that played a crucial role in grassroots governance and peace-building in Lagos State.

Central Palace Project to Begin

A major highlight of the visit was Governor Sanwo-Olu’s assurance that construction of a new Badagry Central Palace would commence without further delay. He disclosed that contractors had already been mobilised, explaining that earlier setbacks were due to unresolved land issues which have now been fully addressed.

Responding to appeals from community leaders, the governor noted that the palace project had been particularly dear to the late Akran, who envisioned it as a unifying administrative and cultural centre for traditional authorities across the kingdom.

“With land now properly allocated and approval granted, this project will move forward,” Sanwo-Olu assured, adding that it would stand as a lasting tribute to the monarch’s legacy.

He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to infrastructure in the area, announcing that the second phase of the Badagry Market–Ajido road would soon take off, describing it as critical to economic growth and mobility.

Tributes from Local Leaders

Earlier, Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon Babatunde #Hunpe, welcomed the governor and thanked him for identifying personally with the people at a moment of collective grief. He described the late Akran as a father figure whose reign fostered peace, dialogue, and cohesion across political, religious, and social divides.

Hunpe noted that the monarch consistently championed development and believed strongly in the role of traditional institutions as partners in governance. He appealed for sustained government support to preserve the legacy of the throne and complete projects associated with the monarch’s vision.

Similarly, Chairman of Olorunda LCDA, Hon Ajose Peter #Kumayon, said the late Akran successfully blended tradition with progress, attracting growth and goodwill to Badagry during his reign.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, Vice Chairman of the Badagry Council of Aholus and Obas, Saheed Adamson, described the monarch as a wise leader whose influence strengthened grassroots traditional authority and ensured stability across the division.

A Legacy of Peace and Cultural Pride

The ninth-day prayers were marked by solemn reflections and tributes, with senior government officials in attendance, including the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abimbola Salu-#Hundeyin; Commissioners Bolaji Robert Lawal and Ibrahim #Layode; and Badagry lawmakers and council chairmen.

As prayers were offered for the repose of the monarch’s soul, speakers repeatedly emphasised that preserving peace, unity, and cultural pride would be the most fitting honour to a ruler whose life was devoted to service.

Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by assuring the people of Badagry that the state government would continue to stand by them, support the royal family, and fulfil promises tied to the late Akran’s vision, noting that Badagry would remain a place of pride, history, and cultural attraction for generations to come.