The Akran of Badagry Kingdom, De Wheno Menu-Toyi, has died at the age of 89.

The revered monarch, a prominent member of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, passed away on Monday after a brief illness. He reigned on the throne of the ancient Badagry Kingdom for over 48 years.

Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the monarch’s death, describing it as a great loss to Badagry, Lagos State, and Nigeria as a whole.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor said Oba Menu-Toyi’s passing marked the end of an era defined by wisdom, selfless service, and cultural preservation.

Sanwo-Olu described the late Akran as a respected traditional ruler who made remarkable contributions to the unity, growth, and development of Badagry Kingdom and Lagos State.

“On behalf of my wife, the government and people of Lagos State, I commiserate with the people of Badagry, the royal family, friends, associates and traditional institutions on the transition of the paramount ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I,” the governor said.

He noted that the monarch, who spent nearly 49 years on the throne, was known for his wisdom, commitment to cultural heritage, and advocacy for development in Badagry.

“The death of Oba Akran is a great loss to the ancient town of Badagry. He was a respected traditional ruler who made positive impacts during his lifetime and contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of his community, Lagos State, and Nigeria,” Sanwo-Olu added.

The governor further stated that Oba Menu-Toyi served as a custodian of Badagry’s traditions and customs, promoted the town’s historical sites and cultural festivals, and played a key role in fostering tourism and cultural exchange locally and internationally.

“He was a stabilising force who united diverse interests within his kingdom and used his position to attract growth and development to the ancient town,” the statement said.

Sanwo-Olu urged the royal family, subjects, and people of Badagry to work towards immortalising the late monarch, while praying for God’s comfort for the family and the entire kingdom.

Until his death, Oba Menu-Toyi, who ascended the throne on April 23, 1977, served as the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.