The Badagry Kingdom in Lagos State is in mourning following the death of its paramount ruler, the Akran of Badagry, His Majesty Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I. The revered monarch passed away at the age of 89, bringing an end to a remarkable reign that spanned 48 years on the throne.
From Classroom and Newsroom to the Throne
Born on September 18, 1936, Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I was the fifth child of the 17th Akran, His Majesty De Wheno Aholu Ajiyon-Kanho. His journey to royalty was preceded by a distinguished career in education and journalism. After his formal education at Salvation Army Primary School in Lagos, Methodist School in Badagry, and Methodist Teachers’ College in Ifaki, Ekiti, he began his professional life as a teacher in the Badagry Division.
His passion for storytelling led him to journalism in 1961, starting as a diplomatic correspondent and chief reporter for the renowned West African Pilot under the Post Group of Newspapers. He later advanced his career at the Daily Sketch as a senior sub-editor and then at The New Nigeria newspapers, where he rose to the position of Acting News Editor for the southern region.
His excellence in the field was internationally recognized when he received a grant from the International Press Institute (IPI) to study at the University of East Africa. There, he earned a diploma with distinction and shared a prize on the Law of the Press with a journalist from Uganda.
A Reign of Service and Development
Oba Menu-Toyi I's appointment as the Akran of Badagry was approved by the Lagos State Government's Executive Council on October 7, 1976. His official coronation took place on April 23, 1977, where he assumed the royal title and began his long service to his people.
Beyond his royal duties, he was a significant figure in state governance and community development. He served as a member of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission from 1979 to 1983. His leadership roles were extensive, including being the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs and Chairman of the Chieftaincy Committee in Badagry Local Government.
In October 1990, he was elected by his peers to represent the Council at the enlarged National Council of States in Abuja. His contributions to national life were honored with the prestigious national award of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) on March 7, 1981.
Legacy of a Frontline Monarch
The late Akran was a grand patron, patron, and president to numerous social, charitable, and professional organisations. He remained a steadfast supporter of journalism in Nigeria and Africa throughout his life, bridging his past profession with his royal responsibilities.
His 48-year reign stands as one of the longest in the history of Lagos State, marking an era of stability and advocacy for the Badagry Kingdom. The community now reflects on the life of a monarch who was not only a custodian of culture but also a celebrated journalist and a dedicated public servant.
The passing of Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I leaves a significant void in the traditional and socio-political landscape of Lagos State. Plans for his burial and succession rites are expected to be announced by the kingdom's traditional council in the coming days.
