Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday led top dignitaries and residents in paying final respects to the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Babatunde Akran, at a solemn funeral service held at Freeman Memorial Methodist Cathedral.
The late monarch, who died in January 2026 at the age of 89, was honoured with a 10-day burial programme that blended traditional rites, cultural displays, and official state recognition, reflecting his status as one of Lagos State’s most revered traditional rulers.
The funeral rites, which commenced on April 23, culminated in the well-attended church service and a grand reception that drew government officials, traditional leaders, family members, and community stakeholders from across the state and beyond.
The elaborate programme was jointly organised by the Lagos State Government and a planning committee led by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
The events were designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Badagry Kingdom while honouring the enduring legacy of the late monarch.
Ahead of the final service, a series of traditional rites were observed across the kingdom, including ceremonial gun salutes in historic quarters, sacred Iwure rituals, and the colourful Ajogan royal parade, each underscoring the deep-rooted customs and identity of the Badagry people.
Speaking at the service, Sanwo-Olu described the late Akran as a symbol of continuity and a custodian of Badagry’s history, noting that his reign was inseparable from the story of the ancient kingdom.
“We are not gathered here to mourn but to celebrate our revered monarch, the father of this kingdom—a custodian of history and a symbol of continuity. His reign became inseparable from the story of Badagry itself,” the governor stated.
He added that the monarch’s passing represents a significant loss not only to Badagry but to Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole, praising his lifelong commitment to preserving tradition and serving his people.
“We have come to stand with you, pray with you, and pay our final respects. Lagos stands with Badagry, and indeed, Nigeria recognises this loss,” he said, while extending condolences to the royal family and the community.
Prayers were also offered during the service for government officials in attendance, including Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, by the officiating minister.
Following the church service, guests proceeded to Badagry Grammar School for a reception marked by musical performances and live band entertainment. Attendees adorned coordinated purple and white aso-ebi, adding cultural vibrancy and unity to the occasion.
Among the dignitaries present were the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, business leader Samuel Ajose, alongside other prominent figures from government, business, and traditional institutions.
The funeral programme also featured several community-focused activities in the days preceding the final rites.
These included a novelty football match, environmental sanitation exercises, a medical outreach at the Akran Palace, project inspections, a night of tributes, a Jumat service, and the Akran Legacy Festival.
A thanksgiving service is scheduled to take place at the cathedral on Sunday, May 3, while the burial ceremonies will formally conclude on May 6 with final traditional rites, including the revered Zangbeto procession and other sacred cultural performances, bringing the historic farewell to a dignified close.
