The human experience is characterized by the interwoven threads of remembrance, honour, and caution, which serve as guiding principles that shape our actions, define our relationships, and shape our understanding of the world. The Holy Quran teaches us about the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. It reminds us that every soul will experience death and that our ultimate reward or punishment will be given on the Day of Rising. According to the Quran (3:18.5), avoiding the Fire and being accepted into the Garden is the true measure of success, as this life is but transitory and fraudulent. The Quran reminds us of the cycle of life and death, emphasizing that Allah brings the living from the dead and the dead from the living. It also stresses the fact that Allah revives the earth after it has died. This cycle serves as a reminder of our own resurrection and the eternal life that follows our earthly existence. Therefore, it is important to remember and honour those who have passed away, cherish those who are still with us, and avoid any hindrance on our journey.
Remembering the dead is, however, more than simply remembering them; it is also about honouring their legacy, keeping their stories alive, and appreciating the influence they had on our lives. By recollecting their laughter, wisdom, and love, we keep their spirits alive in our hearts and ensure that their memory continues for generations to come. Yann Martel, the celebrated author of “Life of Pi,” once made a profound statement about the beauty of life and the inevitability of death. In his words, “Life is so beautiful that death has fallen in love with it—a jealous, possessive love that grabs at what it can. But life leaps over oblivion lightly, losing only a thing or two of no importance, and gloom is just a passing shadow of a cloud.” This statement aptly summarizes the human experience and highlights the fragility of existence as a virtue that is utterly powerless in the face of death.
The sudden demise of Senator (Dr) Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim, FCIB has left many of us in shock. Even though some of us did not have close relationships with him, we were still moved by his kindness towards the people we knew. Despite being a high-ranking official, he was easily accessible and would promptly respond to calls and messages on his WhatsApp number. This is a rare quality that is not often seen in people of his status. Senator Ibrahim was not only a strong advocate of human capital development but he was also known for his compassion towards individuals from all walks of life. His commitment to establishing lasting legacies and creating positive change made him a beloved figure among his constituents, earning him the title of a grassroots leader. During his time as a senator and after, Rafiu Ibrahim worked tirelessly to advance the interests of his people, making significant progress in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and agriculture. His dedication to his constituents was evident in his unwavering focus on achieving progress and improving their standard of living. Senator Ibrahim was a shining example of selflessness and dedication to public service, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
In the words of Yevgeny Zamyatin, “A man is like a novel; until the very last page, you don’t know how it will end. Otherwise, it wouldn’t even be worth reading.” The life and legacy of Senator Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim was a brief but impactful one that touched the lives of countless people. He was a man who dedicated his life to the service of his community and the advancement of education as a means of alleviating poverty. Senator Rafiu Ibrahim was a man of great integrity and an exceptional political figure, who left an indelible mark in his community and the larger society. He was a visionary leader who lived his life with a sense of purpose and a deep commitment to making the world a better place for all. His contributions to human development and philanthropy were widely recognized, and his impact on the less privileged was immense. Senator Ibrahim was a remarkable individual whose passion for knowledge was truly inspiring.
Throughout his life, he worked tirelessly to promote scholarship through his influence and dedication. He firmly believed that quality education was the key to unlocking human potential and was committed to ensuring that everyone had access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. Senator Ibrahim was widely respected by his colleagues and friends, who held him in high regard for his dedication to serving others. This was a testament to the impact he had on the lives of those around him.His leadership was characterized by a deep sense of empathy, integrity, and commitment to the common good. Sadly, Senator Ibrahim passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and motivate those who knew him. His death was a great loss to his community, but it also served as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and appreciating those who have made significant contributions to society while they are still with us.
Ironically, even those who were once considered Senator Ibrahim’s enemies spoke highly of him after his death, acknowledging him as a good man. It is truly regrettable that the Yoruba adage, “Níjọ́ a bá kú làá dère, ènìyàn ò sunwọn láàyè,” meaning, “It is only in death that we become virtuous, failing to appreciate people while they are alive,” was evident in his life and legacy. The Quran instructs us to remember and respect the deceased, but it also emphasizes honouring the living. This can be achieved by expressing gratitude, showing appreciation for their efforts, and conveying how much we value their presence. This act of honouring strengthens our connections, builds our communities, and supports us in times of need. It fosters a culture of empathy, respect, and appreciation for the diverse experiences of humanity.
The Quran particularly encourages us to acknowledge and appreciate those who have made a difference in our lives and communities while they are still with us. Praising someone after they have passed away may provide solace to their loved ones, but it cannot bring comfort or fulfilment to the deceased. Senator Ibrahim’s life was a testament to the fact that good deeds do not go unnoticed and that we should recognize them while they are still happening. It is therefore necessary to remember and appreciate those who have made significant contributions to society while they are still with us. Expressing gratitude and acknowledging the living is a simple yet powerful way to build strong connections, strengthen communities, and uplift one another in times of need. When we take the time to show appreciation and recognition, it not only strengthens our relationships but also improves our overall well-being.
In fact, studies show that expressing gratitude can boost our mood and increase happiness, making it a powerful tool that we can all use to create positive change in the world. The act of acknowledging the contributions of others and expressing gratitude can make a world of difference. It uplifts the spirits of the recipient and makes them feel valued and recognized, which can inspire them to continue making positive contributions to society. Whether it’s a simple thank you note, a heartfelt conversation, or a kind gesture, expressing gratitude can have a ripple effect that spreads positivity and kindness throughout our communities. As one Nigerian reggae-dancehall singer and songwriter, Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, better known by his stage name Patoranking sings in his hit song, “Celebrate me now when I dey alive, appreciate me now when I dey alive.” It’s important to take the time to recognize and appreciate the people in our lives while they are still with us, rather than waiting until it’s too late.
This way, we can create a culture of appreciation and gratitude that supports and uplifts one another, making the world a better place for all. To truly honour the legacy of people like Senator Rafiu Ibrahim, we must actively avoid falling into the pitfalls of neglecting our duties towards others. By taking the time to express our gratitude and acknowledge those who make a positive impact on us, we foster a culture of empathy, respect, and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human knowledge. Each person we encounter carries a story, a journey, and a contribution to the world. We must take the time to appreciate and honour the people in our lives while they are still with us. By doing so, we can create a better world for everyone.
As we go through our journey of life, we are bound to encounter various challenges and obstacles that can potentially derail us from our path. In order to overcome these hurdles, we need to approach them with a sense of awareness, wisdom, and resilience. The holy Quran provides us with guidance and teachings on how to utilize our time effectively and draw closer to Allah. It emphasizes on performing virtuous deeds such as acts of charity, seeking knowledge, fasting, and other forms of worship that can bring us closer to our Creator. At the same time, the Quran cautions us about the negative effects of arrogance and greed, reminding us that the wealth and power we accumulate during our lifetime will eventually fade away. It reminds us that we are mere mortals, who will one day return to dust and bones.
The Quran also teaches us to pray for the deceased and seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for them. We are advised to ask Allah to expand their graves and to wash them with water, snow, and hail. We should also pray that their loved ones in the afterlife are granted a better life than the one they had in this world. As human beings, we have a fundamental responsibility to uphold values such as honesty, and integrity, and to constantly strive for personal and collective growth. It is our duty to try and make a positive impact on the world and leave it in a better state than we found it. By doing so, we can earn the rewards of Allah. However, we often get so caught up in our daily lives that we forget that death is an inevitable part of our existence. It is crucial to remember that while we are still alive, we should strive to be a source of happiness and support for our fellow beings. We must consider the consequences of our actions and the legacy we leave behind before it is too late.
It is also insufficient to base our lives entirely on the opinions of others. Rather, we ought to concentrate on being ready to confront our Almighty God, our Creator, at any given time. Even though death is not a question of “if,” but rather “when,” it is important to prepare for the unanticipated. Often, people do not plan accordingly, leaving their families scrambling amidst the tragedy. As someone who has spent time around death, I have learned that we need to plan for the inevitable. We must take the initiative to plan for our future and ensure we leave no stone unturned. Doing so will bring peace of mind to us and our loved ones, knowing that we have taken care of everything that needs to be done. Unfortunately, unexpected things happen, such as the loss of a job or unexpected family health issues. It is crucial to plan for these situations as well, even though we hope they never come to fruition.
However, planning for unexpected events does not make them happen. People pre-plan their funerals all the time, and I have never seen someone drop dead because they planned for their funeral. We tend to think it will always be someone else, especially with bad things. But the truth is, bad things happen to us all, on a tragically regular basis. If we were to die tomorrow, would we or those closest to us have any regrets? It is a question that we should ask ourselves and reflect upon. If the answer is yes, then we should start doing something about it today. We should not wait for the perfect moment to start planning for the future because that moment may never come. Planning for the unexpected is the responsible thing to do, and it will bring peace of mind to us and our loved ones.
Today, we mourn the loss of a great leader, Senator Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim, who passed away. His sudden demise has left a deep void in our hearts. While we wish we could have lived together forever, we accept that death is an inevitable part of life. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, a renowned Nigerian musician, once sang a poignant song that captures the inevitability of death and how it affects everyone, irrespective of their profession or expertise. In the song, he notes that death comes for all, including the diviner (Babalawo) and the medicine man (onisegun), who are traditionally considered to have special knowledge and skills. Despite their training and experience, death affects them as if they do not understand or know anything. The song’s lyrics suggest that death is a great equalizer that subverts distinctions and hierarchies, reminding us that we are all mortal beings who will eventually succumb to its power. The final line of the song, “We have all sewn the garment (agbada) of death,” is a powerful metaphor that underscores the inevitability of death and how we must accept it as a part of life’s cycle.
However,Senator Rafiu Ibrahim’s legacy of service, leadership, and philanthropy will continue to inspire and motivate others to make a positive impact in the world.His life serves as a reminder that we should all strive to leave a positive impact on the world and the lives of those around us.Senator Direct Entry, as he was affectionately known, was an exceptional political figure and a worthy representative of his constituents. He was a man of great integrity, a visionary leader, and a source of inspiration to many. As we prepare for Senator Ibrahim’s eigh-day fidau prayers at Wesley LGEA Primary School in Ojoku and other parts of the world, I would like to express my deepest condolences to his family, friends, associates, and the people of Ojoku and Kwara South. To his family, I know that words cannot fully express the pain you are feeling right now. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. To the people of Ojoku and Kwara South, please take heart. Losing Senator Ibrahim is undoubtedly a great loss for the community. His absence will be felt for a long time, and it may be difficult to fill the void that he has left behind. However, I have faith that the people of Ojoku are strong and resilient. They will continue to support each other and work towards a better future, despite this tragedy. Let us all come together to honour Senator Ibrahim’s memory and continue his legacy of service to the community.
If we had not been informed of Senator Rafiu’s final wish to be buried in Ilorin’s Muslim cemetery, many of us, his lovers and admirers, would have chosen Ojoku as his final resting place. At the very least, Ojoku should have a Muslim cemetery where he can be buried alongside the downtrodden he cared for throughout his life. Burying him in his hometown of Ojoku, among the same people he stood for during his life, would have been a suitable way to respect his life and legacy. Moreover, considering that the people of Ojoku and the entire Kwara South Senatorial District hold him in the highest regard and value, it would have also been an enormous honour for him. Nonetheless, we respect his ultimate decision and recognize that only God knows what is best for us. May God bring solace to the people of Ojoku and Kwara South and grant them the resilience to cope with this profound loss. It is no exaggeration to say that the people of Ojoku and Kwara State have lost one of their golden sons.
As we bid Senator Ibrahim farewell, we take solace in the words of Bertolt Brecht, who said, “Do not fear death so much but rather the inadequate life,” and Ernest Hemingway, who reminds us that “Every man’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another.” May Allah forgive Rafiu Adebayo AdisaIbrahim’s sins, grant him a place in Jannah, and make his reception honourable. May his grave be spacious and filled with light, and may he rest in peace. We pray that Allah blesses him for his good deeds, and surrounds him with a garden filled with beauty. May he receive the gentle blow of a cool breeze, be washed with snowflakes, ice, sleet, and water, and everything be pure and cleansed of sin as a white cloth is purified perfectly. Amen.
Abdulfatai is the Chief Coordinating Officer at BiohistoHub, a research and biography writing organization. You can contact him at [email protected].
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