The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, describing his passing as a monumental loss to both the traditional institution and the media profession.
The NUJ delegation was led by the Deputy National President, Dr Abimbola Oyetunde, and accompanied by members of the Lagos State Council Executive under the leadership of Adeleye Ajayi.
The team also commiserated with the people of Badagry over the demise of the revered monarch.
Speaking during the visit, Dr Oyetunde noted her personal connection to Badagry, stating that her late stepfather hailed from the town.
She described the late monarch as an accomplished journalist and mentor who contributed immensely to the growth of the media industry.
According to her, the late Akran remained deeply connected to journalism, having edited several newspapers and guided many practitioners in the profession.
She further highlighted the late monarch’s developmental strides, particularly his role in fostering peace and economic growth in Badagry.
Oyetunde recalled his support for initiatives such as the establishment of a community radio station in the area, noting that his leadership created an enabling environment that attracted growth and development to the ancient town.
The NUJ Deputy President also read a condolence letter signed by the Union’s National President, Alhassan Yahya, who described the monarch’s death as a painful loss.
The letter extolled the late Akran’s virtues of wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to community service, adding that he served as a bridge between the media and traditional institutions.
Other members of the delegation included notable journalists such as the National Financial Secretary, Samuel Dada, the State Secretary, Tunde Olalere, Gbenga Fatile, alongside other stakeholders in the media industry.
In a related development, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, also paid a condolence visit to the royal family and the people of Badagry.
The delegation was led by the Lagos State Chairman of the group, Chief Deji Wellington, who conveyed the message of the National Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
In the condolence message, Afenifere described the late monarch as a highly revered traditional ruler whose nearly five-decade reign brought peace, unity, and cultural preservation to Badagry and the wider Ogu land.
The group noted that since his ascension to the throne in 1977, the late Akran demonstrated exceptional leadership, dignity, and commitment to communal harmony.
The group further acknowledged his contributions as a distinguished journalist, cultural icon, and advocate for the preservation of Ogu traditions, noting that his legacy extended beyond Badagry to the entire Yoruba land and Nigeria at large.
Afenifere prayed for the repose of his soul and urged the royal family and the people to sustain the values of peace and development he championed.
In his remarks, veteran journalist, Prince Adeyinka Amosu, paid tribute to the late monarch’s enduring influence in journalism, noting that he belonged to a rare generation of media professionals who distinguished themselves through dedication and excellence.
He called for robust media coverage of activities lined up for the celebration of the monarch’s life and legacy.
Responding on behalf of the family, Chief Anthony Ajose expressed appreciation to the NUJ leadership, Afenifere delegation, and other well-wishers for their visits and show of solidarity in this period of mourning.
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