By Esther Onyegbula

The Chief Executive Officer of SMA Foundation, Mr. Samuel Mauyon Ajose, on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to the Akran Palace in Badagry, Lagos State, following the death of the Akran of Badagry.

Ajose, who is also a leading All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, described the passing of the revered monarch as a huge loss to the people of Badagry and Lagos State at large.

Speaking during the visit, he said the late Akran’s demise came at a time when his wisdom and leadership were still needed by the community.

“This is not the kind of time the Akran should have left us, but God knows best. We are here today to commiserate with the royal family. We have met with them and assured them of our full support in every way they may require,” Ajose said.

He noted that the monarch lived a fulfilled life and was celebrated while alive, adding that his final rites would reflect a celebration of life rather than mourning.

“We are grateful that we had the opportunity to celebrate him at 89 years in 2025. Whatever will happen here will be a celebration of his life and legacy,” he added.

Ajose described the late monarch as a true king whose reign was defined by peace and stability, noting that Badagry remained calm despite security challenges in other parts of the country.

“It takes strong leadership to sustain peace. Our prayer is that the peace he left behind will continue to reign. We will stand by the family and provide all necessary support towards the burial because this is our burial. We will host everyone coming to Badagry,” he said.

Responding, Prince Adeyemi Akran, the first son of the late monarch, thanked Ajose and the SMA Foundation for the visit and support, describing the loss of his father as painful but instructive.

“It is not easy to lose a father, but his death teaches us to celebrate life and cherish the time we have with our loved ones. Today, I choose to celebrate rather than mourn,” he said.

Prince Adeyemi noted that the late Akran left an enduring legacy, not only for the people of Badagry but also beyond the community.

“He impacted many lives. His reign was a blessing, and we will celebrate His Majesty to the best of our capacity,” he added.

The Akran of Badagry ascended the throne on April 23, 1977, and reigned for 48 years, making him one of the longest-serving traditional rulers in Lagos State.
His reign was marked by peace, unity and steady community development across Badagry and its environs.

A former journalist, the late monarch began his career as a teacher before venturing into journalism. He also served as a member of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission and held positions as Grand Patron, Patron and President of several social, charitable and professional organisations.

Widely respected beyond the throne, the Akran of Badagry was regarded as a strong voice for his people and a symbol of unity throughout his reign.