President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Oba of Badagry, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Oba Babatunde Akran, who died on Monday at the age of 89.
In a condolence message issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with the Government and people of Lagos State, the Lagos State Traditional Council, the Badagry Council of Chiefs, and the sons and daughters of the historic Badagry Kingdom over the loss of the revered monarch.
President Tinubu described Oba Babatunde as a visionary and purposeful leader who provided steady guidance to his people for more than four decades, fostering harmony, tolerance, unity and prosperity across the kingdom.
The President also acknowledged the late monarch’s pivotal role in safeguarding and promoting the historical legacy of Badagry, particularly its significance as a former slave port and route, as well as its rich cultural heritage that continues to draw global interest.
According to the President, Oba Babatunde demonstrated exceptional wisdom in balancing tradition with modernity, managing multicultural interests, and preserving the sanctity of cultural institutions for future generations.
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President Tinubu further paid tribute to the monarch’s distinguished professional journey, noting that before ascending the throne, Oba Babatunde served was a teacher and later made notable contributions to journalism, holding key positions at the West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria.
The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed traditional ruler and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his family and the entire Badagry community at this time of grief.