President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of the Oba of Badagry, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Oba Babatunde Akran, who passed away on Monday at the age of 89.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his sympathies to the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State Traditional Council, the Badagry Council of Chiefs, and the people of the historic Badagry Kingdom.
President Tinubu described Oba Babatunde as “a visionary and purposeful leader who provided steady guidance to his people for more than four decades, fostering harmony, tolerance, unity and prosperity across the kingdom.”
He also highlighted the late monarch’s crucial role in preserving and promoting the historical significance of Badagry, particularly its heritage as a former slave port and route, as well as its cultural legacy that continues to attract global attention.
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“Oba Babatunde demonstrated exceptional wisdom in balancing tradition with modernity, managing multicultural interests, and preserving the sanctity of cultural institutions for future generations,” the President said.
President Tinubu further recognised the monarch’s distinguished career before his ascension to the throne, noting that he served as a teacher and later contributed significantly to journalism, holding key positions at the West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria.
The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed ruler’s soul and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his family and the entire Badagry community during this period of mourning.
