Lagos Begins Funeral Rites for Late Akran, Shuts Down Badagry Market Temporarily

Posted by Chinenye on Thu 23rd Apr, 2026 - tori.ng

Funeral ceremonies have begun in Lagos State for the late Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu-Toyi I, leading to the temporary closure of the Agbalata International Market in Badagry.

(late Akran, Aholu Menu-Toyi I. Photo Credit: Tribune online)

Lagos State started funeral ceremonies for the late Akran, Aholu Menu-Toyi I, on Thursday, stopping business operations at Agbalata International Market, Badagry.

After the traditional king passed away on January 12, the Badagry community launched a state-sponsored campaign to honor his life and customary authority.

The Lagos government had previously established a 10-day funeral schedule for the late monarch, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.

This was revealed on April 18 at a press conference in Badagry by Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the State Government.

The Central Planning Committee head, Salu-Hundeyin, announced that the events will take place from April 23 to May 6.

"The Lagos State Government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is committed to honoring the Akran appropriately," she stated.

On Wednesday, a town crier visited quarters and marketplaces, announcing the commencement of ceremonies and directing Agbalata Market to be temporarily closed.

A NAN correspondent noted that stores and stalls stayed closed, leaving the often busy market empty all day on Thursday.

The "Depegan" of Badagry, Chief Tunde Giro, announced that the market would reopen on Friday following preliminary ceremonies.

"The market will only close during special rites, considering its importance to Badagry, Lagos, and other parts of the country," he stated.

When they arrived without knowing about the shutdown and discovered shuttered stalls with no trading activity, some dealers expressed frustration.

Mile 12 fish trader Joseph Edwin claimed he didn't have any advance notice before traveling to Badagry.

Edwin stated, "Authorities should also announce on radio and television so more people are informed, not just traders within the market."

In the meantime, "Ajogan" dance parades have started around Badagry's eight sectors as part of the palace's burial ceremonies.

As celebrations continue, prayers for the late traditional monarch are being offered by Christian, Muslim, and traditional believers.