*Photo: The late Sheikh Sikirullah Alabi Babalola*
Convener of OMOLUABI for YAYI, Prof Abdulwahid Ajibola has described the death of Sheikh Sikirullah Alabi Babalola, the Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland as a great loss.
In a condolence message, Professor Ajibola, a foremost campaigner for the governorship aspiration of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola in Ogun State wrote:
“Innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhi rājiʿūn
(Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we shall return)
With much sadness and a deep sense of loss, yet in full submission to the will of Allah, I commiserate with the family, friends, the Muslim Ummah, particularly his followers of Sheikh Sikirullah Alabi Babalola and indeed the entire people of Yewaland on the demise of the much loved and revered Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland, and President General, Ogun State Raabitah.
“My most solemn condolences also go to all Grand Chief Imams across Ogun State, as well as the League of Imams and Alfas for the irreparable loss of an eminent scholar, a spiritual guide and a custodian of faith.
“Sheikh Sikirullah Alabi Babalola lived a life of humility and exemplary leadership. He served the cause of Islam and was deeply devoted to the worship of Allah. His life and legacy will continue to be a source of guidance and inspiration for us all, although his passing at this time is a great loss.
“May Allah, in His infinite mercy, overlook his faults and shortcomings, accept his return and honour his lifelong devotion and acts of worship, granting him Al-Jannatul Firdaus. May Allah also grant that we all that have been touched by this loss be given the strength and fortitude to bear it.”