It is important to understand the cultural meaning of the titles associated with the Badagry monarchy.

These titles are not ornamental; they carry deep historical, spiritual, and administrative significance within the #Ogu ( #Egun ) tradition.

De Wheno

De in Ogu language denotes a sacred or revered person, often associated with authority, dignity, and ancestral legitimacy.

Wheno means “owner of the land” or “lord of the soil.”

De Wheno, therefore, translates to: “The Sacred Owner of the Land” or “The Ancestral Lord of the Territory.”

This title affirms the king as the custodian of Badagry land, traditions, and ancestral authority, not merely a political figure but a spiritual and cultural trustee.

Aholu

#Aholu means “the one who rules”, “the sovereign”, or “the ordained leader.”

It signifies legitimacy derived from ancestral lineage, divine sanction, and communal consent.

In context, Aholu represents rightful kingship, distinguishing the monarch from appointed chiefs or temporary rulers.

Akran

#Akran translates as “the paramount ruler”, “the crown bearer,” or “the supreme king.”
It is the highest royal title in Badagry Kingdom and signifies absolute traditional authority within the kingdom and its territories.

Full Royal Title Explained

When combined, #DeWhenoAholuAkran means:

“The Sacred Owner of the Land, the Legitimate Ruler, and the Paramount King of Badagry.”

This full title encapsulates the monarch’s spiritual, territorial, judicial, and cultural authority over Badagry Kingdom.

Picture credits: Louis Gabriel Whenayon via Wikinedia Commons