The Lagos State Government has announced a 10-day burial programme for the late Akran of Badagry, His Imperial Majesty De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, scheduled to hold from April 23 to May 6.
The Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, disclosed this on Saturday, noting that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is committed to giving the monarch a burial befitting his legacy and stature.
Salu-Hundeyin explained that the programme would combine traditional rites with official state activities, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and leadership role of the late king.
According to the schedule, activities will commence on April 23 with a traditional gun salute, prayers, and a royal parade across Badagry. This will be followed by a novelty football match at Badagry Grammar School on April 24.
Community service and a medical outreach are slated for April 25, while various associations and groups will pay homage at the Akran Palace between April 26 and April 28.
Key events lined up include the inspection of project sites and a Christian procession on April 29, a youth programme and night of tribute on April 30, as well as a special Jumat service alongside the Akran Legacy Festival on May 1.
The main ceremonies will take place on May 2, featuring an interdenominational service, foundation-laying ceremonies, and a grand reception. A thanksgiving service is scheduled for May 3, while traditional rites, including the Zangbeto procession and Oro rites, will conclude the programme on May 6.
The late Aholu Menu-Toyi I reigned for over four decades and was widely regarded as a stabilising force in Badagry. Stakeholders, including Badagry Local Government Chairman Babatunde Hunpe, media committee chairman Adeyinka Amosu, and lawmaker Solomon Bonu, described him as a peaceful leader whose legacy of cultural preservation, youth development, and community progress should be sustained.
