Abiodun mourns death of Ogun’s top Islamic leader
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun mourned the death of Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola, the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in the state.
- Abiodun described the late cleric as a devoted Muslim, respected scholar, and influential leader who served humanity and the Muslim community with integrity and generosity.
- The burial ceremony in Yewa North Local Government Area was attended by other dignitaries, including the Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Kunle Salako, who also eulogized the late Sheikh for his service to Islam and Yewaland.
The passing of Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola, a revered Islamic leader in Ogun State, has been met with profound sadness and tributes from prominent figures, including Governor Dapo Abiodun. The Punch reports on the solemn burial ceremony held in Igan Alade, Yewa North Local Government Area, where the late cleric was honored for his significant contributions to the Muslim community and his service to humanity.
I cannot find better words to describe him other than that he was a man of God and a good man.
Governor Abiodun, in his eulogy, emphasized Sheikh Babalola's stature as a devoted Muslim, a respected scholar, and a man of integrity, generosity, and faith. He highlighted the cleric's leadership roles as the Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland and President of the League of Imams and Alfas, underscoring his influence within the state's religious landscape. The governor lamented the loss, noting that Ogun State, known for its religious harmony, had lost a foremost spiritual leader.
He was a very upright man who consistently defended the interests of Yewaland, even as a Muslim leader. He always looked out for the younger generation and served as a rallying point for many people in the land.
The Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Kunle Salako, echoed these sentiments, describing the late Sheikh as an upright man who consistently defended the interests of Yewaland and served as a rallying point for many. Dr. Raji Akano, from the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, used the occasion to remind attendees of the inevitability of death and the importance of leading impactful lives. The article notes that Sheikh Babalola died at the age of 98, having completed his earthly assignments.
His death, though coming at a ripe old age, is still a huge loss to us. We will greatly miss him, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants him Aljanah Firdaus.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.