The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the people of Badagry to uphold the legacy of the late Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi 1.

Mr Sanwo-Olu made this appeal on Wednesday while addressing the crowd at the Akran’s palace in Badagry, Lagos State, during the 8-day funeral rites of the late traditional ruler.

According to him, Akran stood for togetherness, unity and peace among his people.

“He stood for tradition and the rich cultural heritage that Badagry is known for.

“I want to advise the people of Badagry and Lagos to emulate the legacy the late monarch stood for, so that peace will continue to reign in the town,” he said.

He also reiterated his commitment to the long-overdue renovation of the Akran palace, promising that construction would begin soon.

“We will start the construction of the long-promised central palace.

“The construction of the palace was stalled due to discrepancies in the selected locations and sites for the palace,” he said.

However, he stated that the matter has been settled, with approvals and budgets now in place.

He assured Badagry residents that work on the second phase of the Market General Hospital Road to Ajido would begin soon.

The governor eulogised the late traditional ruler, noting that his 49-year reign had been impactful, leaving behind a legacy for the people to cherish and build upon.

“The Akran title is an outstanding traditional title with a rich history, not only in Lagos State but also in the country.”

He promised the late Akran’s family full government support over the next three months, and assured that all commitments made to Badagry residents, including outstanding compensations, would be fulfilled.

Babatunde Hunpe, chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, described the late Akran as a unifying figure, embodying peace, wisdom, and cultural pride – more than just a traditional ruler.

“Throughout his reign, he stood firmly as a custodian of our rich heritage, a father to all, and a bridge between tradition and modern governance.

“He was a voice of moderation, a promoter of harmony, and a consistent advocate for the development and progress of Badagry Local Government.

“Under his leadership, Badagry remained a land of peace, where dialogue prevailed over conflict, and where the throne served as a rallying point for all sons and daughters, irrespective of political, religious, or social affiliations.

‘His counsel was sought and respected, and his doors were always open to the people,” he said.

He commended Mr Sanwo-Olu for attending the prayer session.

“Your presence here this day is a powerful demonstration of leadership with empathy, compassion, and respect for our traditional institutions.

“We are deeply touched that you chose to personally come and commiserate with us on the transition of our highly revered monarch,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of all traditional rulers and chiefs in Badagry, Saheed Adamson, the Aholu of Ajido, said Akran’s reign was marked by wisdom and unwavering commitment to peace and unity.

According to him, Akran played a major role in the approval of four traditional rulers in Badagry.

Mr Adamson said the late Akran ensured that grassroots leadership was properly reorganised.

He said the late Akran was a custodian of culture and tradition.

Dignitaries at the prayer included Dr Obafemi Hamzat, the deputy governor of Lagos State; executive council members, other political office holders, and traditional rulers, among others. 

(NAN)