Badagry Kingdom has been thrown into deep mourning following the passing of its revered paramount ruler, His Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I (OFR, LLD, DLitt, JP), the Akran of Badagry. The highly respected monarch reportedly passed away at the age of 89 after a brief illness, marking the end of a historic, dignified, and profoundly influential reign.
For decades, Oba Menu-Toyi I stood as the custodian of Badagry’s rich cultural heritage, a towering symbol of unity, wisdom, and royal authority. His reign was defined by uncommon intellectual depth, grace, and an unyielding commitment to preserving the traditions, identity, and historical relevance of the ancient coastal kingdom. Within Lagos State, he was a formidable traditional voice and a revered member of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, where his counsel commanded respect and carried moral weight.
Beyond the borders of Badagry, the late Akran was widely respected across Nigeria as a monarch whose influence transcended the palace. He was known as a ruler of culture, memory, and conscience, deeply aware of history and the responsibilities of traditional leadership in a modern society. Under his stewardship, Badagry remained a living symbol of resilience, cultural continuity, and historical remembrance.
Internationally, His Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I enjoyed profound reverence in Brazil, where he maintained deep and enduring ties with Brazilians of enslaved African descent who trace their ancestry to Badagry, historically recognized as one of the major departure points during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Over the years, the Akran warmly received countless delegations, priests, cultural leaders, and families from Brazil who journeyed to Badagry in search of ancestral reconnection. Through these encounters, he became a living bridge between Africa and its diaspora, embodying healing, return, and restored identity.
As news of his passing spread, Brazilians of enslaved descent joined in mourning the revered monarch. Speaking from Brazil, Baba Paulo de Xangô paid tribute, saying, “He received us back home several times.” His words echo the collective sentiment of many across the African diaspora who regarded the Akran as a royal father and spiritual anchor.
As Badagry bows its head in grief, tributes continue to pour in from traditional rulers, government officials, cultural institutions, historians, and members of the global African diaspora. The passing of Oba Menu-Toyi I is widely seen as the close of a defining chapter in the history of Badagry Kingdom.
A CALL FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN BADAGRY
The death of such a globally respected monarch once again brings to the forefront the immense historical and tourism potential of Badagry, a legacy that must not be neglected. Badagry is not merely a town. It is a global heritage destination, a spiritual homeland for millions in the African diaspora, and a cornerstone of Nigeria’s historical narrative.
The Lagos State Government must not take the development of Badagry lightly. Purposeful investment in tourism infrastructure, heritage preservation, cultural festivals, museums, and diaspora engagement will not only honor the legacy of Oba Menu-Toyi I but also unlock economic growth, job creation, and international goodwill. Properly developed, Badagry can stand shoulder to shoulder with world renowned heritage destinations, attracting visitors from across Africa, the Americas, and beyond.
To neglect Badagry’s tourism potential is to neglect history itself.
Though he has joined his ancestors, the royal footprints of His Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I remain indelible. His enduring legacy of cultural preservation, ancestral reconnection, and dignified leadership will continue to inspire generations.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
