Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, a member of the National Assembly representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sen. Sharafadeen Alli, and the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State in 2023, Sen. Teslim Folarin, have mourned the death of a renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Muhydeen Ajani-Bello.
His remains have been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites at his Akobo residence in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State on Friday.
Ajani-Bello, according to a family source, died after a brief illness at a private hospital in Ibadan.
Makinde, in a statement, condoled with the immediate family of the Sheikh, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola; the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiyu Abubakry Agbotomokekere; the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, and especially Oyo State, where the Ibadan-born Islamic preacher and leader was a major figure until his death.
The governor extolled the virtues of the renowned cleric, describing him as a courageous, forthright, and patriotic religious leader who set good examples for others.
He prayed to Allah to grant him Aljana Firdaus while also praying to God to uphold the immediate family, friends, and well-wishers of the cleric.
Also, Senator Alli has expressed deep sadness over his death.
Senator Alli described the late cleric as a towering figure whose teachings and lifestyle profoundly impacted countless lives in Nigeria and beyond.
The lawmaker lauded Sheikh Bello for his unwavering commitment to Islam and his dedication to preaching peace, unity, and the fear of Allah.
He said that the cleric’s sermons often inspired hope, strengthened faith, and promoted morality among Muslims as well as non-Muslims alike.
“Sheikh Muhyideen Bello was a spiritual beacon whose words guided millions of souls.
“He was an embodiment of piety, wisdom,
and humility, always reminding all of their duties to Allah and humanity.
“His passing is a great loss not only to the Islamic community but also to all who cherish justice, kindness, and righteousness,” Alli said.
Senator Alli extended heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, his disciples, and the entire Muslim Ummah, urging them to find solace in the impactful and exemplary life the cleric lived.
The lawmaker called on everyone to honor Sheikh Bello’s memory by upholding the values he tirelessly preached throughout his lifetime.
“All of us are reminded once again of the transience of life and the importance of living for the greater good.”
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Senator Folarin, in his condolence message, stated:
“The African Muslim Ummah has lost a legend.
Baba was a great father and advisor. I can’t find the appropriate words to express my sadness, but I take solace in the fact that Baba came, saw, and conquered.
The Nigerian and African Muslim Ummah has lost a legend. Sheikh Bello was an international Islamic preacher, scholar, and peace ambassador.
He lived a selfless and fulfilled life where he gave his all for the propagation of Islam. His usual pieces of advice and wise counsel to political, religious, and traditional leaders will be greatly missed.”
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