TRIBUTE TO HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, DE WHENO MENU TOYI I, THE AKRAN OF BADAGRY KINGDOM By Anago-Osho James Akeem
De Wheno Menu Toyi I, the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom, was divinely bestowed upon the people of Badagry. I pray that his soul finds eternal peace in the land of his ancestors beyond this earthly realm.
He was a kind and compassionate king. My personal encounter with him was like that of a father. He was gentle, attentive, and always willing to listen. He carried the burden of his people with sincerity and made it his duty to seek solutions to their problems. Patience and tolerance defined his reign and his personality.
As Brother Bode once remarked, “Anago-Osho, I hope we will find another kind king like De Wheno Menu Toyi I.” He recalled how the Kabiyesi gave him a recommendation while he was seeking admission into Lagos State University, Ojo. Today, that same Brother Bode serves as a senior officer in the Nigeria Immigration Service. He is a living testimony of the king’s far reaching kindness and support.
Ambassador Isaac Moses and his wife, Ambassador Nneka Isaac Moses, also shared their memorable encounter with Kabiyesi during the early days of Goge Africa. They spoke of how he received them warmly, encouraged them to stay focused on their vision, and supported their proposed journey to the Benin Republic by providing valuable contacts. According to them, those connections opened doors far beyond their expectations. This is another testament to the king’s generosity and influence.
The final grand rites marking the transition of His Royal Majesty were graced by distinguished dignitaries, including the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat. The gathering also witnessed the presence of royal fathers from across the nation, including representatives of the Ooni of Ife, the Oba of Lagos, the Alake of Egbaland, as well as revered traditional rulers from Badagry Division, Benin Republic and beyond.
His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Menu Toyi I, raised children who reflect the same peace, kindness, dignity, and wisdom that defined his reign. His daughters are admirable role models, carrying themselves with grace and strength worthy of their royal heritage.
I am particularly close to Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, a calm, peaceful, and thoughtful personality whose wisdom and humility stand out remarkably. His brother, Adedeji Godson Akran, is equally admirable creative, respectful, and refined in his ways.
I am deeply proud of the wonderful children the King left behind. They embody the values and character of their father and will undoubtedly preserve and uphold the great legacy, culture, and heritage His Majesty entrusted to them.
His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Menu Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry’s relatives, the family compound, Jegba and the Ganyinkoh community, the traditional institution, the Badagry Division, Badagry Local Government, the Badagry Quarters, market men and women, youths, and the organizing committees, friends and well wishers are all worthy of commendation for their unwavering support, dedication, and steadfastness throughout the reign and final journey of the king to the land of his ancestors.
His life was a bridge that connected people, opportunities, and destinies. His legacy will continue to echo in the lives he touched and the paths he helped shape.
Haweeh! Haweeh!! Haweeh!!!
Amb. James Akeem Anago-Osho
Cultural Heritage Advocate, Tourism Proffesional, Ambssador for DNA Tested Africans, Founder: Global Anago Adventures Ltd, Volunteer: Social Welfare And Heritage Conservation Foundation (SWAHCF), Vice President, Nigeria Association Of Tour Operators (NATOP South West Zone)