Tinubu mourns Islamic cleric, recalls his guidance during Lagos governorship

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Lagos-based Islamic scholar and community leader, Sheikh Tijani Gbajabiamila. Tinubu described the late cleric as a "beacon of guidance and wisdom" whose influence profoundly impacted religious life, interfaith harmony, and community development across Lagos State and Nigeria.

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During my tenure as Governor of Lagos State, and much earlier in life, I had the honour of knowing and benefiting from the guidance of Imam Gbajabiamila as a dedicated Muslim scholar and passionate religious leader.

In a personal tribute, Tinubu shared his long-standing relationship with Imam Gbajabiamila, noting that he had personally benefited from the cleric's counsel as a Muslim scholar and dedicated religious leader. "During my tenure as Governor of Lagos State, and much earlier in life, I had the honour of knowing and benefiting from the guidance of Imam Gbajabiamila as a dedicated Muslim scholar and passionate religious leader," the President stated.

Tinubu lauded Gbajabiamila's extensive knowledge of the Quran and Islamic teachings, highlighting his ability to interpret and apply principles to daily life, which earned him widespread reverence. Beyond his role in leading worship services and delivering sermons, the President recognized the cleric's significant contributions as a community leader, teacher, mediator, and counselor. Gbajabiamila was also noted for his strong advocacy for education among young Muslims and his commitment to social justice and community development through various Islamic organizations and local governance.

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He worked tirelessly to build bridges between different religious communities, promoting mutual respect and understanding. His efforts helped to foster a sense of unity and cooperation among people of different faiths and backgrounds.

A particularly significant aspect of Imam Gbajabiamila's legacy, according to Tinubu, was his tireless work in promoting interfaith understanding. "He worked tirelessly to build bridges between different religious communities, promoting mutual respect and understanding. His efforts helped to foster a sense of unity and cooperation among people of different faiths and backgrounds," the President said. The President acknowledged that Gbajabiamila's passing is a profound loss, but affirmed that his legacy of wisdom and unity will continue to inspire.

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He was a teacher, educating the youth about Islamic principles and practices, and a mediator, resolving differences within the community.