The Ogu Concern Forum,OCF, has expressed its sadness over demise of late Oba of Badagry ,Aholu Babatunde Akran Menutoyi .
This is contained in a statement by its President Patrick Avoseh.
The Forum described the late monarch as a focused and determined monarch who used his exposure and wealth of experience to develop and elevate the city during his 49 years reign.
Full statement below:
With a deep sense of loss but gratitude for a life well spent, the Ogu Concern Forum (OCF)
mourns the passing of Aholu Babatunde Akran, De Wheno Menutoyi of Badagry. Aholu Akran
was a stellar figure in defense and promotion of Ogu culture and traditional values. His reign and
influence extended beyond the geographical Badagry kingdom to include all Ogu communities in
Nigeria. He was the de facto royal father and national leader of the Ogu people in Nigeria. OCF
was fortunate to enjoy the partnership and guidance of Aholu Akran while he was with us. OCF
is particularly grateful for his support and involvement in her struggles, hosting the OCF and
honoring her invitations. We are grateful for his open embrace of all Ogu people in Nigeria and
his service to advance and promote our traditions and heritage.
Born on 18 September 1936, Aholu Akran had his early schooling at Salvation Army Primary
School, Lagos, and Methodist School, Badagry, before attending Methodist Teachers’ College,
Ifaki, Ekiti between 1956 and 1957. An astute professional, he was a teacher and journalist,
serving as a News Editors at some point with The New Nigeria.
In October 1976, the Lagos State
Executive Council approved his appointment as Akran of Badagry. He was formally crowned on
23 April 1977, taking the title De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, becoming the paramount
traditional ruler of the historic Badagry Kingdom.
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He was conferred with the national honors of
the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 1981
Aholu Akran’s 49-year reign was characterized by strength and visibility.
As Permanent ViceChairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, he helped guide traditional institutions
across Lagos. Among other things, he will be remembered for bringing much attention and
development to Badagry and its adjoining communities. His legacy of cultural leadership,
unifying force for peace, and social advocacy will not be forgotten.
Mr Patrick Avoseh
President, Ogu Concern Forum
