The Akran of Badagry in Lagos State, Aholu Menu-Toyi 1, has dispelled speculations making the rounds that he had passed on.
“I wonder why people keep on saying I’m dead when I’m hale and hearty.
“I am not dead as being widely speculated on the Facebook” (sic), the traditional ruler told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Badagry on Friday.
NAN reports that a similar rumour of Akran’s death was reported in July 2013.
He added: “The social media is supposed to be used to spread genuine stories. So, I wonder why someone would go about spreading false information that I am dead.
“As you can see, I’m very much alive, enjoying a remarkable healthy lifestyle and attending to day-to-day royal engagements within the kingdom, the state and the nation.
“I am sure that I still have a long time to live on earth. So, I’m going to be here for a long time and nothing is going to hold me back”.
The monarch said the boy, who allegedly initiated the rumour, had been “summoned’’ to the palace with his parents.
Akran also said the matter had been reported to the appropriate authorities for necessary action.
“We have called the boy and his parents to explain why he decided to carry such a mischievous and misleading rumour.
“We have also reported the case to the police and other security agencies so that it can be investigated”.
The traditional ruler expressed concern that the internet was being used as a medium for spreading false information.
He advised members of the public to be wary of some information emanating from the internet, saying criminals use the medium to manipulate people and carry out nefarious activities.
The Akran also urged the people of Badagry to pray for the ancient town and to be law-abiding always. (NAN)
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