The Lagos State Government, on Sunday, inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to coordinate the final burial rites of the Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi I.
The ceremony, held at the Akran’s Palace, drew government officials, council chairmen, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies and stakeholders from Badagry Division.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode-Roberts, described the committee’s membership as a sacred responsibility.
He stressed that the burial must be conducted with dignity, accountability, cultural sensitivity and zero politicisation.
“This is not an all-political affair. If this were our biological father, how befitting would we want the burial to be?” Kayode-Roberts said.
He cautioned members against financial impropriety, political interference or actions capable of undermining public confidence.
The commissioner assured that the government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu would provide full support for the burial arrangements.
Kayode-Roberts praised the immediate family of the late Akran and traditional chiefs for showing unity before and after the traditional ruler’s passing.
Co-Chairman of the committee, Mr. Jimi Ahisu, said success would depend on unity, cooperation and divine guidance.