The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

Aondoakaa’s call

•We cannot forever depend on America or any foreign country to solve our problems

A former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Emmanuel Aondoakaa, during a bi-partisan consultation dinner in his state capital, Makurdi, Benue State, called for the United States government to extend its military air strikes to the state, to help flush out the terrorists and bandits there.

He made the appeal in response to the incessant terror attacks on the people and residents of the state. He claims the terrorist gangs have morphed from alleged herders seeking grazing fields to real criminal gangs that have overrun many local government areas, after killing people and destroying properties.

While we find it curious that a former attorney- general can call for the intervention of a foreign government to solve an internal domestic security issue, we equally appreciate the dire situation that has led to the loss of several lives and properties in not just Benue State, but most states in the northern region of the country.

The North East, North Central and North West of the country have been fertile grounds for a series of attacks that have moved from claims for herders in need of grazing fields for their cattle, to wanton killings of citizens, kidnappings and human displacements (IDPs), to utter destruction of farm lands, especially in Benue State, which has the enviable tag as the ‘Food Basket of the Nation’, given its success with food and fruits production.

Vicious attacks on the state have been happening since 2011, 2013, 2018, 2024 to 2025 and even this year. The notorious Agatu massacre of 2016 stands out for the scale of human losses and global outrage as more than 300 people were murdered during a series of attacks, without any of the perpetrators arrested and prosecuted.

The recent Yelwata massacre that reportedly claimed hundreds of lives has attracted more international attention, including the United States’ Congress that even sent a delegation to the scene. There are allegations that between 2024 and 2025, over 6,896 people were murdered and thousands displaced, with numerous properties burnt in the process.

The attacks on several farming villages in Benue State have seriously impacted food security in the country. The consequences of the several attacks that have persisted over the years have also badly impacted the people, the local and national economies and the global perception of Nigeria’s ability to secure the lives and properties of its citizens.

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The reasons for the attacks have metamorphosed from disputes over lands for grazing to indigenes and settlers, and even Christians versus Muslims in what many are now describing as Christian genocide. The attacks on not just Benue but many other communities in other states have further increased the trust deficit of the citizens on all tiers of governments.

The insecurity has several implications. No economy thrives amidst insecurity. Domestic and foreign investments don’t thrive amidst any form of insecurity.

While we appreciate the effects of insecurity in every state and in this case Benue, we feel that the former AGF, as a statesman, ought to employ other measures in calling for the attention of the government to tackle the menace. Nigeria is a sovereign nation that can seek solutions to its internal problems. Appealing for a better use of intelligence and better training and deployment of law enforcement agencies and community vigilance might be a better option than inviting an America with all the possible outcomes that might include more civilian casualties or even an escalation of the insecurity and attacks.

History has records of America’s interventions in other countries and it has not always been funny. The stories of Iraq, Syria, Libya and Afghanistan, etc. show that perfect outcomes do not occur always. We can only strengthen our institutions, regain the citizens’ trust and use decisive intelligence and law enforcement to tackle the insecurity across the country.

What would be the outcome if America continues going from state to state to sort out issues that our domestic policies and system ought to sort out? We must not seek to outsource problems we have the capacity to solve. America might not be the saviour under this circumstance. Even if we must seek their help in arms supply and intelligence, we must be the ones in charge. They cannot bear our cross forever. Our systems must be made functional for national development.

January 13, 2026
Trump govt revokes over 100,000 visas amid crackdown on immigrants

The United States revoked the visas of more than 100,000 foreign nationals last year, the State Department said yesterday.

This came to light as the Trump administration continues to enforce stricter immigration curbs.

The U.S. has been actively revoking visas for Nigerians and other nationals under the Trump administration, citing national security and criminal concerns like DUI, assault, and theft, with reports of thousands affected, including professionals and students, often without detailed explanation, creating significant disruption.

DUI means Driving Under the Influence, a crime for operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, leading to penalties like fines, license suspension, and jail time, with related terms like DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) and OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) used in different places for the same offence.

It applies to alcohol, prescription meds, or other impairing substances, and even minor impairment can result in a charge.

This intensified scrutiny is part of a broader policy to curb immigration and enforce stricter vetting, impacting various visa types and leading to concerns about transparency and due process,

“In less than one year, the State Department revoked over 100,000 visas from foreign nationals, marking a new record and more than a 150% increase in revocations since 2024,” deputy spokesman Tommy Pigott said in an emailed statement.

He added that the revocations included thousands of foreign nationals charged or convicted of crimes, including assault, theft, and driving under the influence.

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“The State Department’s recently launched Continuous Vetting Centre works to ensure that all foreign nationals on American soil comply with our laws — and that the visas of those who pose a threat to American citizens are swiftly revoked,” Pigott said.

“The Trump administration will continue to put America first and protect our nation from foreign nationals who pose a risk to public safety or national security,” he added.

The statement came amid the administration’s broader crackdown on immigrants, which has extended to international students and activists critical of Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza. Legal challenges have pushed back against these actions.

Turkish PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk, who was arrested on the street by plainclothes ICE agents after co-authoring an op-ed on Gaza, was later released from ICE detention, and a federal judge restored her student record in December.

Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful U.S. resident and pro-Palestinian activist at Columbia University, was also released and has legally challenged the revocation of his visa.

January 13, 2026
World Braille Day

Succinct and poignant, the theme for the commemoration of this year’s World Braille Day, ‘Let the blind read’ aptly captures a serious challenge faced by the visually impaired across the world. This is talking about the inadequate opportunities for those who have lost their sight to access reading materials; a problem that is particularly acute in developing countries such as Nigeria.

Commemorated annually on January 4, the World Braille Day utilises this significant invention, that aids literacy and education among the blind, for global reflection on ways to continue to deepen the reading culture within this important category of citizens.

Giving an insight into the dimensions of the problem in Nigeria, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Dr John Asein, noted that less than one per cent of published materials in the country are produced in formats accessible to the blind such as Braille, audio or digital texts equipped with screen-reading facilities.

Decrying what he described as a serious “book famine” among the blind, Dr Asein emphasised that “the cost of inaccessibility is not merely social exclusion, but long-term harm to education, employment prospects, and the inclusion of the print-disabled in the larger national development agenda”.

We agree with him that guaranteeing the visually challenged access to reading through the provision of the requisite facilities should not be an act of charity but should be treated as a fundamental right of affected persons.

In the final analysis, it is the society as a whole that benefits when all categories of citizens are able to read, attain literacy, obtain an education and continuously improve their minds through reading. The mind, it has been graphically stated, is a terrible thing to waste and this certainly does not exclude the minds of the visually challenged. It is thus commendable that Section 26 of the Copyright Act, 2022, has enabled Nigeria to domesticate the Marrakesh Treaty, “expressly permitting the reproduction, distribution, and cross-border exchange of works in accessible formats for persons with print disabilities”.

To ensure the effectiveness of its statutory mandate in this regard, the NCC’s new guidelines “provide much-needed clarity, transparency, and safeguards for the production and dissemination of accessible format copies” which are designed to “encourage broader institutional participation, rebuild confidence among rights holders and intermediaries, and substantially increase the availability of books in Braille and other accessible formats”.

This is surely the right way to go even though the NCC must more effectively publicise its activities in this regard so that visually impaired persons will be aware of their rights and thus be in a better position to pursue and protect them.

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In her message to mark the day, the First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, stressed the need for all authorities at all levels in the country to deepen policies and partnerships that will “empower blind and visually-impaired citizens to live full, independent lives and participate confidently in national development”.

In particular, Mrs Tinubu made the crucial point that as the process of digitalisation deepens across the world, the question of accessibility to reading materials by the blind and visually-impaired in a digital age must be accorded the right priority. Her admonition that the integration of Braille with modern technology is critical to guaranteeing equal access to information, education, and economic opportunities for persons living with visual impairments must be taken seriously by policy makers at all levels.

Available data indicate that there are about 24 million people who suffer vision loss in Nigeria, about 1.3 million blind people and another 4.25 million adults above 40 years with moderate to severe experiences of impairments.

Beyond the problem of access to reading materials in the requisite formats by the visually impaired, other difficulties faced by physically challenged people in Nigeria include limited job opportunities, poor economic prospects, inadequate access to qualitative healthcare and lack of safety and facilities to aid convenience of mobility in public buildings, among others.

The adequacy of care and support given to all categories of physically challenged persons is a key indicator of the degree of compassion, civility and indeed civilisation in any society.

January 13, 2026
‘Iran to open deal with U.S. amid crackdown on protesters’

•China calls for non-interference in Tehran

Amid ongoing mass protests across Iran in which hundreds of people have been killed, the country has asked the United States to open new negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump has said.

Speaking aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump told reporters the Iranian leadership had called him “to negotiate” a day earlier.

He added that a meeting with Iranian representatives might be arranged, but said the U.S. could need to act beforehand given ongoing protests in the country.

“I think they’re tired of being beat up by the United States,” he added, apparently referring to Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear programme last year, which involved U.S. military support.

Trump did not specify what topics the talks would cover. Last year, Tehran had held indirect discussions with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff over its disputed nuclear programme.

But, China has called for non-interference in Iran’s internal affairs amid ongoing protests in the country.

China’s Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman, Mao Ning, made the call yesterday in Beijing, stressing that China opposes interference in the internal affairs of other states.

The call follows recent comments by the Trump, suggesting possible intervention.

Ning said China also rejects the use or threat of force in international relations.

She expressed the hope that the Iranian government and its people would overcome the current challenges and maintain national stability, as China was closely monitoring developments in Iran.

Ning added that there were no reports so far of Chinese citizens being injured or killed in the unrest.

China and Iran have maintained close economic and strategic relations over the years, particularly in trade and energy cooperation, including the export of Iranian oil to China.

Earlier on Sunday, U.S. media reported Trump is considering possible military strikes on Iran, but also other options.

CNN reported, citing two U.S. officials, that Trump had been briefed on various ways of intervening in light of reports that hundreds of protesters have been killed.

Alongside a range of possible military options, measures that would not involve direct military action were also discussed.

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According to CNN, some of the approaches presented to Trump focused on targeting Tehran’s security forces deployed to suppress the protests.

The broadcaster said there were concerns within Trump’s administration that military strikes could backfire and undermine the protests.

There were fears that attacks could inadvertently lead to greater public support in Iran for the authoritarian leadership, or trigger military retaliation by Tehran.

The news site Axios also reported, citing US officials, that Trump was considering various options, including military ones, to support the protests in Iran.

Most of the approaches put to him currently did not involve combat operations, according to Axios.

Other possibilities reportedly focus on intimidating the Iranian leadership, for example by deploying an aircraft carrier strike group to the region. Axios said cyber-attacks are also under consideration.

Trump shared his support for the demonstrations in Iran over the weekend, saying the U.S. was “ready to help,” without specifying what form any help might take.

The Iranian leadership has blocked the internet for the fourth consecutive day due to the protests, however Trump suggested the U.S. might help protesters access satellite internet.

January 13, 2026
Tehran regime fears defections as protest defies containment

What began on December 28 as demonstrations in downtown Tehran, driven by runaway inflation and the rial’s sharp depreciation against the dollar, has moved beyond a protest wave and become a nationwide movement.

Now entering its third week, at least 574 protest locations have been identified across 185 cities in all 31 provinces, making it the most sustained and geographically expansive anti-regime movement in the Islamic Republic’s history.

As authorities have failed to meaningfully deter protesters or contain the movement, fears of defections within the armed forces are growing.

The Intelligence Organisation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement on January 9 that followed a familiar regime pattern, framing the unrest as a U.S. and Israeli conspiracy and casting Iranian protesters as terrorists. The statement claimed that “a targeted, multi-phase plan has been designed under the guidance of foreign intelligence services, with operational leadership by organized terrorist forces.”

However, in a now-deleted section of the statement, the IRGC Intelligence Organization also warned that any “defiance, desertion, or disobedience” among military personnel would be met with “trial and decisive action.” The apparent removal of this language likely reflects concerns about triggering a panic, but it nevertheless exposes the depth of anxiety among regime officials.

Anonymous Islamic Republic officials told The Telegraph that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei “is in closer contact with the IRGC than with the army or the police, because he believes the risk of IRGC defections is almost non-existent, whereas others have defected before.”

A major turning point in the current protest wave came when Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, son of the shah deposed after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, called on Iranians to hold demonstrations. After his call to begin protesting on January 8, unprecedented crowds marched in cities nationwide in an uprising so extensive that authorities shut down the internet that night. The outage remains ongoing, alongside electricity blackouts and disruptions to landline phone service.

Chants of “Long Live the King!” and “This is the final battle, Pahlavi will return” were heard across the country, with protesters erecting the pre-1979 Iranian flag bearing the lion and sun.

Beyond the call for action, the opposition’s defection plan has become a particular concern for the regime. In June, Pahlavi announced the establishment of a defection platform.

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“I am establishing a formal channel for military, security, and police personnel to reach out directly to me, my team, and our expanding operation,” Pahlavi stated. “This is a secure platform to efficiently manage the growing volume of inbound communications and requests from those breaking with the regime and seeking to join our movement.”

The Islamic Republic’s repression apparatus is no stranger to violent crackdowns. During the 2019 protest wave, security forces killed an estimated 1,500 unarmed Iranians within a matter of days, in addition to killing hundreds in other protest cycles, including children, and arresting over 20,000 people following the 12-day war. This apparatus consists primarily of the IRGC and its subordinate Basij forces, operating in parallel with law enforcement bodies and specialized units.

Estimates vary significantly, and internet shutdowns make it difficult to establish precise casualty figures, but current assessments indicate that between over 500 and more than 2,000 protesters and over 100 security personnel have been killed. Video footage shows armed forces opening fire on protesters using shotguns and automatic weapons.

Tehran’s use of regional Shiite militias is reinforcing its repression apparatus. The regime has deployed more than 800 fighters from Lebanese Hezbollah and Iraqi groups, including Kataib Hezbollah, Harakat al Nujaba, and Sayyid al Shuhada, each designated by the United States as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, alongside the Iran-backed Badr Organization. The regime has long relied on these proxies to suppress unrest at home, including during the protest waves of 2009, 2019, and 2022.

January 13, 2026
Cuba defiant after Trump says island to receive no more Venezuelan oil, money

UNITED States (U.S.) President Donald Trump on Sunday said no more Venezuelan oil or money will go to Cuba and suggested the Communist-run island should strike a deal with Washington, ramping up pressure on the long-time U.S. nemesis and provoking defiant words from the island’s leadership.

Venezuela is Cuba’s biggest oil supplier, but no cargoes have departed from Venezuelan ports to the Caribbean country since the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces in early January amid a strict US oil blockade on the OPEC country, shipping data shows.

Meanwhile, Caracas and Washington are progressing on a US$2 billion (S$2.57 billion) deal to supply up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil to the US with proceeds to be deposited in US Treasury-supervised accounts, a major test of the emerging relationship between Trump and interim President Delcy Rodriguez.

“There will be no more oil or money going to Cuba –Zero! I strongly suggest they make a deal, before it is too late,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform on Sunday.

“Cuba lived, for many years, on large amounts of oil and money from Venezuela,” Trump added.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel rejected Trump’s threat on social media, suggesting the US had no moral authority to force a deal on Cuba.

“Cuba is a free, independent, and sovereign nation. Nobody dictates what we do,” Diaz-Canel said on X. “Cuba does not attack; it has been attacked by the US for 66 years, and it does not threaten; it prepares, ready to defend the homeland to the last drop of blood.”

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The U.S. president did not elaborate on his suggested deal.

But Trump’s push on Cuba represents the latest escalation in his move to bring regional powers in line with the United States and underscores the seriousness of the administration’s ambition to dominate the Western Hemisphere.

Trump’s top officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have made no secret of their expectation that the recent US intervention in Venezuela could push Cuba over the edge.

US officials have hardened their rhetoric against Cuba in recent weeks, though the two countries have been at odds since former leader Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said in another post on X on Sunday that Cuba had the right to import fuel from any suppliers willing to export it. He also denied that Cuba had received financial or other “material” compensation in return for security services provided to any country.

Thirty-two members of Cuba’s armed forces and intelligence services were killed during the US raid on Venezuela. Cuba said those killed were responsible for “security and defence” but did not provide details on the arrangement between the two long-time allies.

January 13, 2026
Life and times of De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I

The late Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, was born on September 18, 1936. He was the fifth child of His Majesty De Wheno Aholu Ajiyon-Kanho, the 17th Akran of Badagry. He started his elementary education at Salvation Army Primary School, Lagos; Methodist School, Badagry; and Methodist Teachers’ College, Ifaki, Ekiti, between 1956 and 1957.

Akran’s demise, as gathered, ended 48 years on the throne, becoming one of the longest-serving monarchs who have ruled any kingdom in the state.

A royal figure of many parts, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I was initially a teacher and taught at various schools in Badagry Division, but later went into journalism.

His career as a practising journalist began in 1961 at the West African Pilot, where he served as a diplomatic correspondent and chief reporter for the Post Group of Newspapers.

Thereafter, he joined the Daily Sketch as a senior sub-editor and later transferred to The New Nigeria newspapers as a senior journalist, becoming the Acting News Editor (South).

As a senior journalist, his outstanding performance earned him a grant from the International Press Institute (IPI) to study at the University of East Africa, where he obtained a diploma with distinction. He also shared a prize on the Law of the Press with another journalist from Uganda. His Majesty continued to support the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria and across Africa.

His appointment as the Akran of Badagry was duly approved by the Executive Council of the Lagos State Government on October 7, 1976.

He ascended the throne of his forebearers during the coronation held on April 23, 1977, where he was crowned and assumed the royal title of De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry Kingdom, in accordance with tradition.

He was the paramount ruler of the Ogu race in Nigeria and the Chairman of the Badagry Divisional Chieftaincy Committees, which oversees over 100 recognised chieftaincies made up of several Obas, Chiefs, and quarter heads (Baales). These chieftaincies are spread across four local government areas namely Badagry, Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, and Ajeromi-Ifelodun.

A frontline monarch and paramount ruler, he served as a member of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission from 1979 to 1983, and as Grand Patron, Patron, and President of various social, charitable, and professional organisations.

De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I until his death was the Chairman of the Chieftaincy Committee in Badagry Local Government and the Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. In October 1990, he was elected by members of the Council to represent it at the enlarged National Council of States in Abuja.

He was honoured with the national award of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) on March 7, 1981.

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According to Babatunde Ajose, an historian, the late monarch was friendly and hospitable—a great lover of his people—who has brought joy, peace, and happiness to them by encouraging community participation in rural development programmes throughout the Badagry area. He is a staunch advocate for Integrated Rural Development.

He described the late Akran as a keen sports lover who believes in the development of sports as a means of achieving a healthy body, mind, unity, and understanding, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I (OFR) donated a large trophy for competition among journalists in the state.

On April 7, 1990, during his installation as the Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Nkpolu, Port Harcourt, he was awarded the degree of Doctor of Laws (LL.D – Honoris Causa). He is currently the Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt.

He embarked on a pilgrimage to designated holy places in Italy, France, Egypt, and Jerusalem. During the pilgrimage, he was received in audience by His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, at the Vatican in Rome. Having fulfilled Biblical injunctions, he ascended Jerusalem, the Holy City and capital of Israel, and was thereafter authorized to bear the title Jerusalem Pilgrim (JP).

The palace (Honme) of Akran continues to be a haven for believers and visitors from far and near. Among the distinguished visitors to the palace were Mrs. Rosalyne Carter and her daughter Amy, wife and daughter of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, and the former Archbishop of Canterbury, The Rt. Rev. Robert Runcie, who christened Badagry as the Canterbury of Nigeria.

January 13, 2026
Sanwo-Olu, OBJ, Adebule, others mourn Oba Akran of Badagry

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senator Oluranti Adebule have expressed sorrow over the death of the Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Babatunde Akran (Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I).

Oba Akran, who reigned for nearly 48 years, died yesterday. He was 89.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the governor described the monarch’s passing as a great loss, not only to the people of Badagry but to Lagos State and the country at large.

Sanwo-Olu said the late Oba Akran was a revered traditional ruler known for his wisdom, commitment to cultural preservation and strong advocacy for the development of Badagry.

He noted that the monarch rendered selfless service to his people and left behind a legacy of unity, respect for tradition and progressive development.

The governor commiserated with the people of Badagry and the royal family, describing the monarch’s death as a significant loss to the traditional institution in Lagos State.

“On behalf of my wife, the government and the people of Lagos State, I commiserate with the people of Badagry, the deceased’s family, friends, associates and traditional institutions on the transition of the Paramount Ruler of Badagry Kingdom and Permanent Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Babatunde Akran, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I,” he said.

According to him, Oba Akran would be greatly missed by the ancient town of Badagry, noting that he was a respected journalist and a traditional ruler who made positive and lasting contributions to the growth and development of his community, Lagos State and Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu added that as a first-class traditional ruler, the late monarch served as the custodian of Badagry’s traditions, customs and cultural heritage, and was a stabilising force who united diverse interests within the kingdom.

He said the monarch also promoted Badagry’s historical sites and cultural festivals locally and internationally, thereby boosting tourism and cultural exchange, while using his position to attract development to the area.

The governor urged the people of Badagry to work towards immortalising the late monarch in recognition of his service and contributions.

“I pray that Almighty God grants the royal family, the people of Badagry Kingdom and Lagos State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.

Former President Obasanjo said the news of the monarch’s passing was received with shock, even as he remarked that the late Badagry monarch had emerged as one of the most respected and respectable traditional rulers in Lagos State.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo said: “He had a most eventful life which traversed eight decades and his reign of 50 years over Badagry Kingdom, which occupies a pedestal of looming importance in our ancient and contemporary history, witnessed notable peace and stability.

“Badagry has, since pre-colonial times, remained a robust repertoire of the finest aspects of our cultural and artistic heritage. He would be remembered as a patriot and custodian of our cultural and traditional values, who gave his best while on the throne of his forefathers.

“Within his impactful years on the throne, he brought his salutary influence to foster unity, solidarity, peace, understanding, faith and development in our common heritage among all the sons and daughters of Badagry and the entire Badagry Kingdom, both at home and in the diaspora.

“He was an apostle of inter-ethnic understanding and cohesion; inter-religious accommodation and tolerance and inter-cultural co-operation.

“For the Governor of Lagos State, the entire good people of Badagry and his family, one can only imagine the traumatic experience and profound grief this sad event has caused them all, but they can all feel assured that their painful loss is shared by countless other Nigerians and certainly by me and my family, while we urge them to take solace in the knowledge that though we love him, his Creator loves him more and knows what is best for him.”

The Senator representing Lagos West District, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, said she received with deep sense of loss the news of the passing of the Akran of Badagry.

Senator Adebule described the late monarch as a revered traditional ruler and a foremost custodian of the rich cultural heritage of Badagry Kingdom

According to her, his demise marks the end of an era in the long and proud history of Badagry, and it is a great loss not only to the people of the ancient town but also to Lagos State and Nigeria at large.

Dr Adebule said: “The late Akran was a symbol of peace, wisdom and dignity. Throughout his 48 years reign, he demonstrated uncommon commitment to the unity, stability and development of Badagry, providing guidance that fostered harmony among communities and strengthened traditional institutions.

“He was deeply passionate about preserving the cultural values and historical significance of Badagry, a town renowned for its role in Nigeria’s history and its enduring cultural identity. His leadership helped to uphold these values while embracing progress and peaceful coexistence.

“Beyond the palace, the Akran was widely respected for his counsel, humility and accessibility. He related warmly with people from all walks of life, earning the admiration of traditional leaders, government officials and ordinary citizens alike.

“As a leader, he worked closely with successive administrations to promote development initiatives and advocate for the welfare of his people. His contributions to the socio-economic growth of Badagry will remain indelible and worthy of emulation.

“On behalf of my family and Lagos West Senatorial District, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, the Badagry Traditional Council and the entire people of Badagry Kingdom. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult moment and pray that God’s grant you all the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.”

Senator Adebule equally commiserated with the Lagos State Government and the traditional institutions in the state over the passing of this distinguished monarch.

She prayed that the late monarch’s legacy of peace, service and devotion to his people continue to inspire present and future generations.

Oniworo of Iworo Kingdom, Badagry, Oba Oladele Kosoko, said the demise of the Akran, an illustrious son and visionary traditional ruler marked the end of an era.

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According to him, an era defined by the Akran’s unwavering commitment to peace, progress and preservation of Badagry‘s rich cultural heritage.

The monarch said: “Baba Akran was more than a traditional ruler; he was a father figure to many in Badagry Kingdom, a unifying force and a beacon of wisdom. His reign brought unprecedented development and stability to his domain. His contributions to the socio-economic and traditional advancement of Badagry Kingdom will forever be etched in our hearts.

“As we mourn his transition, we find solace in the fact that his legacy of service, compassion and leadership will continue to inspire members of Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.”

Also, the Onigbanko of Igbanko Kingdom, Badagry, Oba Sheriff Bello, extended his condolences to the royal family on the transition of the revered traditional ruler.

Oba Bello said: “The passing of the Akran of Badagry marks the end of a glorious era defined by wisdom, dignity, and unwavering commitment to tradition and peaceful coexistence.

“He was not only a custodian of Badagry’s rich cultural heritage but also a respected voice within the traditional institution in Lagos state and beyond. His reign embodied royal discipline, unity, and a deep sense of responsibility to his people.

“As a fellow traditional ruler, I recognise the profound vacuum his departure left, not only within the Badagry Kingdom but across the council of Obas and Chiefs. His counsel, calm leadership, and dedication to cultural preservation will be deeply missed.

“In this moment of grief, Igbanko Kingdom stands in solidarity with the Akran family and the entire Badagry community.”

January 13, 2026
Tinubu mourns Oba Akran of Badagry

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the death of the Oba of Badagry, Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, Babatunde Akran, who passed away yesterday at the age of 89.

In a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with the Government and people of Lagos State, the Lagos State Traditional Council, where the late monarch served as Permanent Vice Chairman, as well as the Badagry Council of Chiefs and the entire Badagry Kingdom.

President Tinubu described Oba Akran as a visionary and purposeful leader who provided steady guidance to his people for more than four decades, fostering harmony, tolerance, unity and prosperity across the ancient coastal kingdom.

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The President noted that the late monarch played a critical role in protecting, preserving and projecting the historical significance of Badagry Kingdom, renowned globally as a former slave harbour and route, while safeguarding its rich cultural heritage which continues to draw international attention.

According to the President, Oba Akran’s reign was marked by wisdom and balance, as he and his council successfully navigated the intersection of modern governance and age-long traditions, managed multicultural interests, and ensured the preservation of sacred cultural icons for future generations.

President Tinubu also recalled the monarch’s distinguished professional journey, noting that before ascending the throne, Oba Akran worked for many years as a teacher and later made notable contributions to journalism, serving in various capacities at the West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria.

The President urged Nigerians, particularly the people of Badagry, to reflect on and uphold the enduring legacy of service, cultural stewardship and inclusive leadership left behind by the departed monarch.

President Tinubu prayed for the repose of Oba Akran’s soul and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his family, the Badagry traditional institution and all those mourning his passing.

January 13, 2026
Oba babatunde akran (1936-2026): Curfew, restriction as Badagry mourns Akran’s passing

Badagry, a historic coastal town renowned for its rich cultural heritage, was yesterday enveloped in a sombre and brooding mood following the passage of its 89-year-old monarch, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry.

The revered monarch, who reigned for 48 years, was a towering figure in the history and development of the ancient coastal town.

He was a former journalist before ascending the throne of his forefathers on April 23, 1977. His long reign was marked by peace, unity and steady community development across Badagry and its environs.

As Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, his counsel and leadership carried significant influence within traditional institutions across the state.

He was widely respected as a devoted custodian of Ogu culture and tradition, as well as a passionate advocate for the welfare of his people.

From the early hours of the day, an unusual calm settled over the ancient kingdom as residents struggled to come to terms with the loss of their traditional ruler.

Markets that normally buzz with activity witnessed low patronage, while groups of residents gathered sparsely in streets and compounds, exchanging restrained conversations.

At the Akran’s palace, it was learnt that the atmosphere was pensive as chiefs and community leaders showed grief.

There were restrictions on vehicular movements around the palace vicinity with some sections of the road leading to the place barricaded. Commuters were said to be directed to take alternative routes.

Sources said the traditional worshippers may have begun observing rites necessitated by the demise of the monarch. Security and palace officials were seen restricting movement in the immediate vicinity.

Residents said the rites would affect social and commercial activities around the palace and may force many residents especially those working outside Badagry to return home early.

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Many residents described the late Akran as a symbol of unity, stability and cultural pride for Badagry. They recalled his role in preserving the town’s customs and mediating communal disputes, while youths spoke of a monarch who encouraged peace and respect for tradition amid modern challenges.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), some sons and daughters of the late king were at the palace, with some seen openly weeping.

A traditional chief, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the Akran passed on at about 1:30 a.m., but confirmation of his death was made at about 5:30 a.m.

“The Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, has been informed, and we hope he will relay the information to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for an official announcement.

“That is why many of us are seated here at the palace to receive visitors. The Akran has gone to rest with his great ancestors,” he said.

January 13, 2026