Badagry Local Government yesterday played host to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat, during a solemn condolence visit to the Palace of the Akran of Badagry, marking the conclusion of the 9-Day Funeral Rites of the revered monarch, His Royal Majesty, Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Akran of Badagry.

The visit underscored the profound respect held for the late monarch and reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the Lagos State Government and traditional institutions across the state.

The Governor and his Deputy were accompanied by members of the Lagos State Executive Council, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, alongside other top government functionaries.

They were received at the palace by the Chief Host and Chief Mourner, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, alongside the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Layode; the Member representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Sesi Whingan; the Member representing Badagry Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Solomon Bonu; the Commissioner II, Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Hon. Yahaya Lateef; and several other dignitaries.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Pays Tribute to a Symbol of Unity

Speaking during the condolence visit, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the late Akran as far more than a traditional ruler. He noted that Aholu Menu-Toyi I was a symbol of unity, peace, wisdom, and cultural pride, whose reign strengthened harmony and coexistence not only within Badagry Kingdom but across Lagos State.

The Governor emphasised that the monarch’s enduring legacy of peaceful coexistence must be preserved and protected. He charged the people of Badagry to continue nurturing the culture of dialogue, tolerance, and unity for which the ancient kingdom is widely respected.

Governor Sanwo-Olu further reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering respect for traditional institutions, describing them as indispensable partners in governance, grassroots mobilisation, conflict resolution, and sustainable development. He assured the royal family and the people of Badagry that the Lagos State Government stands firmly with them during this period of grief and transition.

Hunpe Describes Visit as Leadership with Empathy

In his welcome address, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe expressed deep appreciation to the Governor and his entourage for the visit, describing it as “a powerful demonstration of leadership with empathy, compassion, and respect for our traditional institutions.”

The Chairman noted that the passing of His Royal Majesty created a significant vacuum – not only within Badagry Kingdom but across Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.

Hon. Hunpe paid glowing tribute to the late monarch, describing him as:

• A father to all

• A custodian of Badagry’s rich cultural heritage

• A bridge between tradition and modern governance

He recalled that under the reign of Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Badagry remained a land defined by peace, dialogue, and unity, transcending political, religious, and social divides.

Appeal for the Badagry Central Palace Project

As part of the engagement, Hon. Hunpe made a heartfelt appeal to Governor Sanwo-Olu regarding a project dear to the late monarch – the Badagry Central Palace Project.

He explained that the monarch envisioned the palace as a unifying symbol and rallying point that would:

• Strengthen traditional institutions

• Promote harmony and cultural pride

• Further entrench peace and development within Badagry Kingdom

Responding to the appeal, Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the significance of the project and revealed that previous land-related challenges had stalled its execution. However, he assured the people that with land now duly allocated and budgetary provisions approved, construction would soon commence.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the late monarch through tangible developmental initiatives that honour his vision.

Interfaith Prayers and Broad Community Presence

Prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed monarch – who has transitioned to join his ancestors – were offered by the Reverend of the Methodist Church, Badagry, Rt. Rev. Dr. Sunday Ola Onadipe, and the Chief Imam of Badagry Division, Alhaji Sheikh Fadilat Uwais Akewusola, reflecting the unity of faiths that characterised the monarch’s reign.

Also present at the event were:

• The Vice Chairman, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi

• The First Lady of Badagry Local Government, Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Oluwatoyin Hunpe

• The management of Badagry Local Government led by the Council Manager, Mrs. Olusanya Mary Abosede

• Traditional rulers, clerics, political leaders, APC stalwarts, and Badagrians from all walks of life

The gathering served not only as a moment of mourning but also as a celebration of a life devoted to unity, cultural preservation, and peaceful coexistence.

The condolence visit by Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Hamzat stands as a testament to the enduring bond between government and traditional institutions. It further reinforces the shared commitment to safeguarding the peace, heritage, and progressive future of Badagry Kingdom.

Under the leadership of Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, Badagry Local Government continues to uphold dignity, tradition, and purposeful governance in honour of the legacy left behind by the revered Akran.