Aare Musulumi Akinola’s philanthropy, spiritual leadership lauded at birthday celebration

DIGNITARIES and community leaders gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State, last Sunday, to celebrate the 73rd birthday of the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Dawud Akinola, showering him with commendations for his service to humanity and faith.

In a keynote address delivered on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Chief (Mrs) Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, conveyed the President’s goodwill message.

President Tinubu warned Nigerians to be wary of political coalitions formed by disgruntled politicians, stating that their only goal is to seize power at all costs without a clear plan for governance.

He urged citizens not to be drawn into retrogressive movements that might reintroduce fuel subsidies and reignite large-scale looting.

Nonetheless, the President assured Nigerians that his government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda is on track and called on everyone to remain hopeful and steadfast.

Oyo State governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, represented by Alhaji Akeem Azeez, also praised Aare Akinola, describing him as a unifying figure for both Muslims and Christians, not only in Oyo State but across the South West.

Governor Makinde credited the state’s relative peace to the interfaith harmony championed by leaders like the celebrant and wished him continued good health and long life.

Islamic scholar, Professor Khamil Koyejo Oloso, delivered a brief sermon emphasising the importance of proper upbringing for children.

Oloso reminded Muslim parents that they would be held accountable for their children’s moral and spiritual development on the Day of Judgment.

He stressed that Western education alone is not sufficient and that spiritual education is essential for building peaceful families and a stable nation.

Sheikh Kazeem Akilapa, another Islamic preacher, attributed the success of the celebration to Akinola’s generosity.

Drawing from the Holy Qur’an, Akilapa likened Aare Akinola’s life to that of Prophet Daud (David), noting that just as the Prophet was empowered by Allah to deliver divine messages, Akinola has devoted his resources, time and energy to serving God and humanity.

Alhaji Daud Afolabi, the Oyo State coordinator of the National Council of Muslim Youths Organisations (NACOMYO), recalled Akinola’s critical intervention in resolving a long-standing imamship dispute in Eruwa.

He also noted his swift action for averting a potential crisis in the Sabo area of Ibadan.

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The chairman of the Mogajis in Ibadanland, Mogaji Ariori, also paid tribute to Akinola, acknowledging his consistent support for the council of Mogajis.

Mogaji Ariori noted that the Aare had repeatedly answered their calls for help without hesitation and prayed for his continued strength and good health, given the weighty responsibilities of his title.

Similarly, Alhaji Mutiullah Oladejo Onimalu, the Asiwaju Adinni of Oyo State, described Akinola’s philanthropy as boundless and selfless.

He commended the celebrant for always providing assistance discreetly and without fanfare, stating that his impact is deeply felt by many.

The event was graced by several other dignitaries, including the Iyalaje Adinni of Yorubaland, Alhaja Sidikatu Aderibigbe; the Yeye Aare of Ibadanland, Chief (Mrs.) Mariam Akinola; the Chief Imam of Oluyole Estate Extension Central Mosque, Alhaji Mudathir Bada; Sheikh Muideen Najeemdeen, and members of the Aare Musulumi-in-Council.