By Okikiola Qasim FUGBA.
The Nigerian community has lost a rare gem; a man of honour, integrity, and uncommon professionalism—Professor Abdulganiy Raji. Indeed, the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and the nation at large have lost one man worth millions, whose life stood as a moral compass in public service, academia, and personal conduct.
It is not far-fetched to believe that when Professor Abdulganiy Raji bade his family farewell and was wished a safe journey, his heart was already anchored in the consciousness of destiny. As a devout Muslim, his tongue must have been moist with adhkār—supplications that constantly remind the believer of the fragility of life and the certainty of return to Allah. Like every soul that reflects deeply, he must have contemplated that a day would come when he would breathe his last.
On arriving at his hometown of Ogbomosho, it is only befitting of his spiritual depth to imagine him thanking Allah for journey mercies and seeking divine protection for his stay and safe return. During the nap from which he did not awaken, one is comforted by the thought that he had already armed himself with remembrance of Allah. And if, in those final moments, he perceived that the end had come, it is hoped—indeed believed—that his last utterance was the testimony of faith:
Ashhadu an lā ilāha illā Allāh, wa ashhadu anna Muḥammadan Rasūlullāh.
May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him the highest station in Jannatul-Firdaus.
His Character and Public Service
Professor Abdulganiy Raji distinguished himself as a man of principle, humility, and quiet strength. During his tenure as the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Osun State, he exemplified transparency, courage, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals. He discharged his duties with fairness, resisting undue influence and ensuring that electoral processes were guided by the rule of law rather than personal or political interests. His leadership style was marked by calm firmness, institutional discipline, and respect for all stakeholders, regardless of affiliation.
He was known for his accessibility and humanity, treating staff, security agencies, political actors, and the electorate with dignity. Under his watch, professionalism was not merely demanded; it was modeled. He believed that public office was a trust (amānah), and he guarded that trust with fear of Allah and loyalty to the Nigerian state.
His Academic Legacy at the University of Ibadan
As a senior lecturer at the University of Ibadan, Professor Raji was more than an academic—he was a mentor, moral guide, and inspiration to countless students and colleagues. He combined intellectual depth with ethical clarity, teaching not only the content of his discipline but also the values that should guide knowledge. His scholarship was rigorous, his delivery was clear, and his expectations were high, yet he remained approachable and compassionate.
Students remember him as a lecturer who listened, encouraged critical thinking, and nurtured confidence. Colleagues recall his collegial spirit, humility despite his accomplishments, and readiness to contribute meaningfully to institutional growth. He believed education should shape character as much as intellect, and he lived that belief consistently.
A Personal Testimony
My personal encounter with Professor Abdulganiy Raji dates back to 2017 during the Islamic Vacation Course organized by the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), B-Zone. I was introduced to him by the then Ameer, Mushafau Alaran, as a media consultant to the zone. Remarkably, he rose from his seat, embraced me warmly, and offered words that remain etched in my heart. He acknowledged the sacrifice involved in leaving one’s comfort zone for the sake of service to Allah and assured me of his unwavering support.
True to his words, he stood by me consistently, sacrificing his comfort to ensure mine. Even when he became the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Osun State, he made his residence available to me and my crew whenever we were in Osogbo for professional assignments. Availability or inconvenience was never an excuse; generosity and loyalty were his constants.
During one of the most challenging periods of my career, when betrayal from partners weighed heavily on me, he was among the very few who stood firm in counsel and comfort. He reminded me, with deep wisdom, that as Muslims, forgiveness and giving excuses to our brethren are obligations, not options—especially when we must stand shoulder to shoulder in prayer five times daily and gather for Jumu‘ah. He urged me to see adversity not as an end, but as a step forward in the journey to success. That counsel alone remains a lasting legacy.
Prayer and Closing
May Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgive Professor Abdulganiy Raji, illuminate his grave, and admit him into Jannatul-Firdaus among the righteous, the truthful, the martyrs, and the scholars. May Allah grant patience, strength, and comfort to his family, loved ones, students, and all who mourn him.
We pray for the Nigerian Muslim Ummah—that Allah raises more men and women of integrity, knowledge, and courage to serve with sincerity and fear of Him. May Allah unite our hearts upon righteousness, forgive our shortcomings, and grant us good endings.
Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall all return.
I rest my case.
Okikiola Qasim FUGBA
CEO, EL-QASMIE COMMUNICATIONS,
Owners of EL-QASMIE TV and EL-QASMIE MEDIA SKILLS COLLEGE, Abuja.
09091212198,07041601958
Okikiolaqasimy@gmail.com