The Akran of Badagry, His Royal Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, has passed away at the age of 89 in Lagos State.
The highly respected traditional ruler, popularly known as Oba Akran, died on January 12, 2026, after a brief illness.
His death marks the end of an illustrious reign that spanned nearly five decades, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State.
Oba Menu-Toyi I ascended the throne on April 23, 1977, after receiving approval from the Lagos State Executive Council in 1976, becoming the 17th Akran of Badagry.
Throughout his 48-year reign, he was widely regarded as a stabilising force in Badagry and its surrounding communities, promoting peace, unity and steady development.
Born on September 18, 1936, the late monarch built a distinguished career long before his ascension to the throne.
He began his professional journey as a teacher in schools across the Badagry Division before moving into journalism.
He worked with notable national newspapers, including West African Pilot, Daily Sketch and New Nigeria, where he eventually rose to the position of Acting News Editor (South).
His background in education and journalism strongly influenced his leadership approach, which emphasised dialogue, inclusiveness and grassroots development.
At the state level, Oba Menu-Toyi I played a key role in traditional administration, serving as the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
In recognition of his national service, he was awarded the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic, OFR, in 1981, alongside several honorary degrees, including a Doctor of Laws (LL.D) honoris causa.
His reign focused on promoting socio-economic growth in Badagry, a historic town known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, early missionary activities, and as the birthplace of Western education and Christianity in Nigeria.
Residents and palace sources remember him as a compassionate father figure whose wisdom and interventions helped steer the community through challenging times.
The Akran Palace confirmed that medical officials formally pronounced the monarch dead and that traditional burial rites have commenced in accordance with age-long customs.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government had yet to issue an official statement, although tributes are expected from government officials, traditional rulers and residents within and beyond Badagry.
