*Alhaji Shakiru Adeola Ayilara.
Alhaji Shakiru Adeola Ayilara, popularly known as “Shako Alhaji,” the Ogun State Chairman of the Association of Ram Sellers and a political associate of Nigeria’s immediate past High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, has died at the age of 67.
Ayilara passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, throwing his family, associates, friends, community members and colleagues in the ram sellers’ association into mourning.
His death was announced by the Ayilara family in an obituary statement issued on Wednesday, in which the family expressed profound grief while affirming its submission to the will of Almighty Allah.
The deceased was remembered as a respected community leader who combined his business activities with public service, community development and political engagement.
Ayilara was said to have maintained close relationships with political and community stakeholders in Ogun State, particularly within the Abeokuta axis.
Until his death, he was the Ogun State Chairman of the Association of Ram Sellers, a position through which he represented the interests of members of the association and contributed to the organisation of ram sellers across the state.
His leadership experience, however, extended beyond the association.
Ayilara previously served as a councillor in the then Abeokuta Local Government in 1987, giving him an early opportunity to participate directly in grassroots administration and public service.
He also served as Chairman of the Ike Oluwa Community Development Association, Imala, Abeokuta, where he was involved in community leadership and development initiatives.
In addition, Ayilara served as Chairman of the Ogun State Bulk Purchasing Corporation, further reflecting his involvement in organised economic and public-sector activities.
The Ayilara family described him as a beloved son, father, brother and community leader whose life was marked by service to his family and wider community.
The family said his death was received with profound grief but added that it remained completely submitted to the will of Almighty Allah.
His death is expected to be particularly felt among members of the Association of Ram Sellers, community leaders and political associates who had interacted with him over the years.
Despite his various leadership responsibilities, Ayilara remained closely connected to his roots and was regarded as a grassroots figure with relationships spanning community, business and political circles.
The family announced that his Janazah prayer and burial would take place on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Olomore Cemetery, Abeokuta, at 4:00 p.m.
The family urged relatives, friends, associates and sympathisers to join in praying for the repose of his soul.
In the Islamic tradition accompanying the announcement, the family prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
The obituary announcement was signed by Adeyanju Kabiru Ayilara (Wesco) on behalf of the Ayilara family.