Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Saturday led dignitaries and residents in paying final respects to the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Babatunde Akran, during a funeral service held at the Freeman Memorial Methodist Cathedral, marking a solemn but celebratory farewell to one of the state’s most respected traditional rulers.

The monarch, who passed away in January 2026 at the age of 89, was honoured with a 10-day series of burial rites that blended royal tradition, cultural pageantry, and state recognition.

The elaborate programme, which commenced on April 23, culminated in the church service and a grand reception attended by top government officials, traditional leaders, family members, and community stakeholders.

Organised by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with a planning committee chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the funeral activities reflected the cultural depth of Badagry Kingdom and the significance of the late monarch’s reign.

Traditional ceremonies preceding the final service included ceremonial gun salutes across historic quarters, sacred Iwure rites, and the vibrant Ajogan royal parade, all of which underscored the kingdom’s enduring heritage and royal customs.

Speaking during the funeral service, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the late Akran as a symbol of continuity and a custodian of Badagry’s historical identity, noting that his reign was deeply intertwined with 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,” he said.

He further emphasized the magnitude of the loss, describing the monarch as a leader whose life and reign reflected deep commitment to his people and the preservation of tradition.

“We have come to stand with you, pray with you, and pay our final respects. Lagos stands with Badagry, and indeed, Nigeria is aware of this loss,” the governor said, while extending condolences to the royal family and the wider community.

During the service, prayers were also offered for government officials in attendance, including the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, by the officiating minister.

Following the church service, a reception was held at Badagry Grammar School, where guests were treated to musical performances and live band entertainment. The event was marked by coordinated purple and white aso-ebi attire worn by attendees, adding cultural colour and unity to the occasion.

Among those present were the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, business leader Samuel Ajose, and several other dignitaries drawn from government, business, and traditional institutions.

The funeral programme also featured a range of community-centered events in the days leading up to the final rites. These included a novelty football match, 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 hold at the cathedral on Sunday, May 3, while the burial ceremonies are expected to formally conclude on May 6 with final traditional rites, including the revered Zangbeto procession and other sacred cultural performances, bringing the ancient farewell traditions of Badagry Kingdom to a dignified close.