Obasanjo pays tribute to late Akran of Badagry, hails monarch as champion of unity, cultural harmony

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Akran of Badagry, Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, describing the revered monarch as an apostle of inter-ethnic understanding, cohesion and peaceful coexistence.

Obasanjo, in a condolence message issued on Monday, said he received the news of the monarch’s passing with shock, noting that the late Akran had distinguished himself as one of the most respected and respectable traditional rulers in Lagos State and beyond.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Kehinde Akinyemi, the former president reflected on the long and impactful life of the monarch, who reigned for about 50 years and lived through eight decades of service to his people and the nation.

“He had a most eventful life which traversed eight decades, and his reign of fifty years over Badagry Kingdom—an area that occupies a pedestal of looming importance in our ancient and contemporary history—witnessed notable peace and stability,” Obasanjo said.

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The former president highlighted the historical significance of Badagry, describing it as a major custodian of Nigeria’s cultural and artistic heritage from pre-colonial times to the present day. He noted that Oba Menu-Toyi I played a critical role in preserving and promoting these values during his long years on the throne.

“Badagry has, since pre-colonial times, remained a robust repertoire of the finest aspects of our cultural and artistic heritage. The late monarch will be remembered as a patriot and a devoted custodian of our cultural and traditional values, who gave his best while occupying the throne of his forefathers,” he stated.

Obasanjo further praised the late Akran for fostering unity and development within Badagry Kingdom and among its people at home and in the diaspora.

“Within his impactful years on the throne, he brought his salutary influence to bear in fostering unity, solidarity, peace, understanding, faith and development in our common heritage among all the sons and daughters of Badagry and the entire Badagry Kingdom,” he said.

According to the former president, the monarch’s legacy extended beyond his immediate domain, as he consistently promoted tolerance and cooperation across ethnic, religious and cultural lines.

“He was an apostle of inter-ethnic understanding and cohesion, inter-religious accommodation and tolerance, and inter-cultural cooperation,” Obasanjo added.

While commiserating with the Governor of Lagos State, the people of Badagry and the royal family, Obasanjo acknowledged the depth of grief occasioned by the monarch’s death, describing it as a traumatic loss.

“For the Governor of Lagos State, the entire good people of Badagry and his family, one can only imagine the traumatic experience and profound grief this sad event has caused them. They should, however, be assured that their painful loss is is shared by countless Nigerians, and certainly by me and my family,” he said.

Obasanjo, who is currently in Ethiopia on a continental assignment, urged the bereaved to take solace in their faith.

“Though we love him dearly, his Creator loves him more and knows what is best for him,” the former president said.