By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Badagry, Lagos —
The Chief Executive Officer of Finar Hotel Badagry and Alado Group of Companies, Chief Ibrahim Kilanko Olalowo, has joined the people of Badagry, Lagos State and Nigeria at large in mourning the passing of His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, the revered Akran of Badagry, who joined his ancestors on Monday, January 12, 2026.
Chief Olalowo described the late monarch’s death as a monumental loss to Badagry Kingdom, noting that Aholu Menu Toyi I lived a life of honour, service and fatherly guidance to generations of leaders, youths and traditional institutions within and beyond Badagry.
In a condolence message made available to journalists, the Badagry-based entrepreneur and philanthropist said the late Akran deserved honour both in life and in death, describing him as a mentor whose reign brought stability, unity and dignity to the ancient town.
“Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I deserved my full honour while on earth and even after being called to join his ancestors. He was a father, a mentor and a moral compass to many of us,” Chief Olalowo said.
He noted that the monarch played a fatherly role in the lives of countless Badagry sons and daughters, offering guidance, wisdom and encouragement at critical moments in their personal and public journeys.
“He was not just a traditional ruler; he was a leader with compassion, a man whose doors were always open to his people. Many of us found counsel, correction and encouragement in him,” Olalowo added.
The business mogul further praised the late Akran’s reign as a historic blessing, stressing that his emergence as the paramount ruler of Badagry strengthened the town’s cultural heritage and traditional authority.
“His emergence as the Akran of Badagry was indeed a favour to Badagry, Lagos State and Nigeria at large. His reign brought peace, respect and continuity to our cherished traditions,” he said.
READ ALSO:Four-Month Blackout: Epe Residents Beg Ambode for Help
De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, who was crowned in 1977, reigned for several decades, making him one of the longest-serving and most influential traditional rulers in the history of Badagry. His reign witnessed significant social, cultural and political transitions, during which he remained a stabilising force and custodian of Badagry’s ancient customs.
Chief Olalowo also acknowledged the solidarity shown by political leaders, including the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who joined Badagry indigenes in mourning the respected monarch.
Praying for the repose of the monarch’s soul, Olalowo urged members of the royal family and the entire Badagry community to take comfort in the impactful life the late Akran lived.
“I pray that God grants him eternal rest and gives the royal family and the good people of Badagry the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. Baba lived a well-spent life, and his legacy will continue to speak for him,” he said.
READ ALSO:Modawoni Celebrates Bullion Go-Neat Staff, Jamiu Muili, on Birthday
The death of Aholu Menu Toyi I has drawn tributes from traditional rulers, community leaders and residents, many of whom describe him as a symbol of unity, wisdom and dignity whose influence will endure for generations.
