By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Badagry, Lagos —
A notable chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and former senatorial aspirant for Ogun West Senatorial District, Abioro Damilare Athande, has joined the people of Badagry, Lagos State, and Nigerians across the country in mourning the passing of His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, the revered Akran of Badagry.
The respected monarch, who joined his ancestors on Monday, January 12, 2026, was described by Abioro as a towering traditional ruler whose life and reign embodied unity, moral authority and unwavering commitment to the preservation of Badagry’s cultural identity.
In a condolence statement made available to journalists, Abioro—who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Dardolips Information Global Technology, a public relations and media consultancy firm—described the death of Aholu Menu Toyi I as “the end of an era in Badagry’s traditional history.”
“The passing of His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, is a profound loss not only to Badagry Kingdom but to Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole,” Abioro said.
“He was a father to all, a custodian of history, and a moral compass whose wisdom transcended politics, ethnicity and religion.”
Abioro noted that the late Akran’s reign was marked by peace, stability and respect for traditional institutions at a time when many kingdoms across the country struggled with internal divisions.
“He ruled with uncommon grace and humility. Baba Akran was never distant from his people. His palace was a place of counsel, reconciliation and hope,” he said.
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According to the NNPP chieftain, the monarch’s influence went far beyond ceremonial duties, as he consistently played advisory roles in community development, conflict resolution and youth mentorship.
“As a traditional ruler, he understood the importance of guiding the younger generation. He believed strongly in dialogue, patience and service to humanity. These values defined his long reign,” Abioro added.
He further described Aholu Menu Toyi I’s ascension to the throne as a divine blessing for Badagry, stressing that his leadership strengthened the town’s cultural relevance within Lagos State and Nigeria’s broader historical narrative.
“His emergence as the Akran of Badagry in 1977 was a turning point. His reign restored dignity to the throne and reinforced Badagry’s position as a historic gateway not just to Lagos, but to Nigeria’s collective memory,” Abioro stated.
The late monarch reigned for several decades, making him one of the longest-serving and most influential traditional rulers in Badagry’s history. His tenure witnessed major political, social and economic transitions, during which he remained a stabilising force and respected voice of wisdom.
Abioro also commended political leaders, traditional institutions and residents of Badagry for their unity and solidarity following the monarch’s death, noting that such collective mourning reflects the depth of the late Akran’s impact on the community.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family, the Badagry Traditional Council and the entire people of Badagry, urging them to find solace in the exemplary life the monarch lived.
“I pray that Almighty God grants His Royal Majesty eternal rest and comforts the royal family and the good people of Badagry. Baba lived a fulfilled and impactful life. His legacy of peace, unity and cultural pride will continue to guide generations yet unborn,” Abioro said.
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Since the announcement of his passing, tributes have continued to pour in from traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders and residents, all describing Aholu Menu Toyi I as a symbol of wisdom, dignity and enduring leadership whose legacy will remain indelible in the history of Badagry.
