Al-Hikmah Founder, Chief Oladimeji Describes Late Chief Imam as Emirate’s Moral Compass
The Founder and Chairman, Board of Trustees of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Alhaji (Chief) (Dr) AbdulRaheem Amoo Oladimeji, OFR, has expressed deep grief over the death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, describing the cleric’s passing as a huge loss to the Ilorin Emirate and the entire Muslim community.
In a condolence message made available to journalists on Tuesday, Alhaji Abdulraheem Oladimeji said the late Chief Imam was not only a revered Islamic scholar but also a bridge builder whose teachings and conduct promoted peace, tolerance and unity in Ilorin and beyond.
“The Ilorin Emirate has lost a spiritual pillar and the Muslim Ummah has lost a dependable guide. The late Chief Imam was a moral compass whose life reflected scholarship, humility and total dedication to the service of Allah and humanity,” he said.
The Jagunmolu of Igbominaland noted that the late cleric played a critical role in offering sound religious guidance to both leaders and followers, adding that his sermons and counsel were always anchored on deep knowledge, wisdom and the pursuit of peaceful coexistence.
According to him, the late Imam’s influence cut across social and cultural boundaries, as he consistently encouraged unity among residents of Ilorin, irrespective of background or differences.
Alhaji Oladimeji extended his condolences to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Ilorin Emirate Council, the immediate family of the deceased, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Kwara State Council of Ulama and the people of Ilorin.
He also recalled that the late Chief Imam’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and community development were formally recognised by Al-Hikmah University in 2024, when he was honoured with an Award of Excellence for 40 years of service on the Minbar of Ilorin Juma’at Mosque by the university’s Faculty of Humanities.
“This recognition was a testament to his enduring impact as a scholar and teacher whose knowledge inspired generations,” he added.
While praying for the repose of the soul of the departed cleric, Alhaji Oladimeji urged the people of Ilorin to take comfort in the enduring legacy of righteousness and knowledge he left behind.
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his lifelong service to Islam as an act of worship and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. Though he is gone, his legacy of forthrightness and multidimensional knowledge will continue to guide us,” the statement concluded.
