Dr Abdul‑Azeez Olajide Adediran, widely known as #Jandor and now a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the #Akran Palace in Badagry following the passing of His Royal Majesty, De Wheno #Aholu Menu‑Toyi I, the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom. Jandor, who previously contested the 2023 Lagos State governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before defecting to the APC in March 2025, described the monarch as a monumental figure in the history of Lagos State.

The late Akran, who passed on January 12 at the age of 89, was lauded by Jandor as a symbol of peace, unity and cultural preservation not only within Badagry Division but across Lagos State. Speaking at the palace, the Lagos4Lagos Movement convener emphasised that the monarch’s legacy will remain timeless and integral to the identity of Lagos State’s traditional governance.

Jandor characterised the late Akran, also the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, as more than a traditional ruler — calling him a father figure whose reign promoted harmony throughout the region. He described the moment of mourning as a celebration of a fulfilled life dedicated to service, cultural preservation and community development.

Reflecting on his personal connection to the monarch, Jandor also recalled the royal blessings he received during his 2023 campaign. He noted that such moments will remain unforgettable, reinforcing the late Akran’s influence on political and cultural leadership in Lagos.

While at the palace, Jandor also commended federal and Lagos State government interventions in Badagry. He urged for more deliberate efforts to reposition the historic town as a prime tourism destination in Nigeria — highlighting strategic infrastructure projects and the proposed construction of a modern palace for the Akran as potential catalysts for economic and cultural growth.

Responding on behalf of the Akran Palace, Chief Antony Tose expressed appreciation to Jandor and his entourage, recognising the late monarch’s remarkable contributions to Badagry and Lagos State. Prince Adetunji Akran, Olori‑Ebi of the Akran family, similarly thanked Jandor for his support at a time of mourning.

As part of his visit, Jandor paid a courtesy call on the Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon Babatunde Hunpe. #Hunpe described the visit as a demonstration of respect for Badagry’s traditional institution and the shared responsibility of political leaders to stand with the community and the throne in moments of loss.