By Adeyemi Adeleye
Dr Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, says the history of Lagos State will be incomplete without mentioning the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the traditional and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs joined his ancestors on Jan. 12 at the age of 89.
Speaking at the palace of the Akran during a condolence visit, Adediran, the Visioner of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, described the late Akran as a symbol of peace and development in Badagry Division.
Adediran said the traditional ruler’s death marked the celebration of a fulfilled life devoted to humanity.
“I am here to commiserate with the family of our late royal father, the Akran of Badagry. As a member of this clan, we see this as a celebration of a life well spent.
“The Akran was more than a king. We cannot write the history of Lagos State without mentioning De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I. He recorded many firsts.
“He stood at the forefront of peace and development. Baba did a lot to preserve the throne and promote unity.
“He was not just an Oba but a father to all. He was a king for everybody in Lagos State, especially in Badagry Division,” he said.
According to Adediran, the 2023 Lagos State PDP Governorship Candidate, the late Akran’s contributions to Badagry and the state cannot be overemphasised.
He recalled the royal blessings he received from the late Akran during the build-up to the 2023 governorship election, noting that the traditional ruler’s impact will remain unforgettable.
Adediran commended both the Federal and Lagos State Government for their interventions in Badagry calling for more interventions to reposition the ancient town as Nigeria’s tourism hub.
He also applauded Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for approving the construction of a modern palace for the Akran of Badagry and some road projects during his condolence visit, describing the move as capable of transforming Badagry into “a mecca of sorts”.
Responding on behalf of the palace, Chief Antony Tose commended Adediran and his entourage, noting that the late Akran made remarkable contributions to the division and the state.
Tose also expressed support for Adediran’s governorship bid, saying it was time Badagry produced a governor of the state.
Similarly, Prince Adetunji Akran, the Olori-Ebi of the Akran family, appreciated the condolence visit and prayed God to grant Adediran his heart’s desires.
In another condolence visit to the palace of Oba Oyekan Ajose, the Alapa of Egun, Awori Kingdom, Adediran sympathised with the traditional ruler over the death of his daughter, Princess Oluremi Ajose, Vice Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
He also condoled with the Alapa on the passing of the Akran of Badagry and thanked him for his continued support for President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Sanwo-Olu.
Responding, Oba Ajose thanked Adediran for the visit and urged his supporters to remain united in pursuit of their political ambition.
“He is our son who shows respect to the throne at all times. We pray that you will succeed in this ambition,” the monarch said.
Adediran also paid a condolence visit to the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, over the death of his mother and the Akran of Badagry.
He congratulated the people of Badagry for having Hunpe as council chairman, describing him as a former lawmaker who had contributed significantly to the development of the area.
In his response, Hunpe described Adediran as a hardworking and committed leader committed to the progress of Badagry Division.
NAN reports that Adediran was accompanied by Alhaja Safuratu AbdulKarim and a former Lagos PDP Deputy Chairman, Chief Ola Apena. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Buhari Bolaji
