NEWS
Badagry Kingdom in Mourning as Paramount Ruler, Akran of Badagry, Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Dies at 89 After Nearly Five Decades on the Throne
The ancient town of Badagry in Lagos State has been thrown into deep mourning following the passing of its paramount ruler, the Akran of Badagry, Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, who died at the age of 89.
It is reported that the revered monarch passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2026, after a brief illness. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief across Badagry and beyond, as residents, traditional institutions, and admirers reflect on the life and legacy of a ruler widely regarded as a symbol of stability, wisdom, and cultural pride.
Oba Menu-Toyi I ascended the throne on April 23, 1977, following approval by the Lagos State Executive Council in 1976, becoming the 17th Akran of Badagry. He reigned for an extraordinary 48 years, a tenure that ranks him among the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State. Throughout his reign, he remained a central figure in the social, cultural, and traditional affairs of Badagry and its neighbouring communities.
Born on September 18, 1936, the late monarch brought a rich and diverse professional background to the throne. Before his coronation, he served as a teacher in several schools across the Badagry area, contributing to the intellectual development of many young people. He later transitioned into journalism, where he worked with prominent newspapers such as the West African Pilot, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria. His career in the media culminated in his appointment as Acting News Editor for the southern region, a role that sharpened his skills in communication, analysis, and public engagement.
These experiences in education and journalism significantly influenced his leadership approach as Akran, as he was known for promoting dialogue, inclusion, and community-driven development. His reign was marked by consistent advocacy for peace, unity, and progress in Badagry, a town of immense historical significance as a former slave port and one of the earliest centres of Western education and Christianity in Nigeria.
Beyond Badagry, Oba Menu-Toyi I played a prominent role in traditional governance at the state level. He served as the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, placing him among the most influential custodians of tradition and culture in Lagos State.
In recognition of his immense contributions to society and national development, he was conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic in 1981. He also received several honorary awards and degrees, including a Doctor of Laws, further underscoring his impact beyond the traditional institution.
The Akran Palace has confirmed that medical professionals certified his death and that traditional burial rites have commenced in accordance with the customs of the Badagry Kingdom.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government had yet to issue an official statement. However, tributes are expected to pour in from government officials, traditional rulers, cultural bodies, and members of the public, as Badagry and Lagos State prepare to bid farewell to a monarch whose life was defined by service, dignity, and an enduring commitment to his people.