Distinguished Muslim scholars, religious leaders, and notable figures, including representatives from the office of Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, gathered on Tuesday to perform the fidau prayer in honor of the late esteemed Ilorin Islamic scholar and preacher, Sheikh Hamzah Ariyibi, also known as Babani Ayegbami.
The solemn ceremony took place at the Imam Hamzah Islamic Training Institute located in Ayegbami – Dada, Okelele, near Sobi Specialist Hospital Road, Alagbado, Ilorin. It attracted a large assembly of Sheikh Ariyibi’s followers and well-wishers from diverse backgrounds.
Sheikh Hamzah, who founded the Imam Hamza College of Education and Hamfat Hospital in Ilorin, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025. He was laid to rest the same day in accordance with Islamic burial traditions.
Leading the governor’s delegation at the fidau prayer was his senior adviser and counselor, Alhaji Saadu Salahu.
The team also included key government officials such as the Commissioner for Works, Engineer Abdulquwwiy Olododo; Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afeez Abolore; Special Adviser on Special Duties, Alhaji AbdulRazaq Jiddah; Special Adviser on Media, Alhaji Bashir Adigun; and the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Affairs (Islam), Alhaji Ibrahim Danmaigoro.
In a heartfelt condolence statement, Governor AbdulRazaq honored the late scholar’s legacy and prayed for strength and solace for his family and followers.
The governor’s message, conveyed through his Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye, reads: “Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State mourns the loss of the distinguished Ilorin Muslim scholar and preacher, Sheikh Hamzah Ariyibi.”
“He extends his deepest sympathies and prayers to the bereaved family, students, and admirers of the departed spiritual leader.”
“The governor encourages the Muslim community to find comfort in the enduring legacy of Sheikh Hamzah’s dedication to Islamic monotheism and his lifelong commitment to spreading its teachings.”
“Governor AbdulRazaq beseeches Allah to grant ease to Sheikh Hamzah’s soul, bless him with Al-Jannah Firdaus, and provide steadfastness to his family during this difficult time.”
The Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Mohammed Bashir Salihu, who led the prayer, praised the deceased as a devout servant of Allah, highlighting his exemplary righteousness and generosity.
In a deeply moving sermon that brought tears to his eyes, the revered preacher and grand Mukadam of the Ilorin Emirate, Sheikh Sulaiman Dan-Borno, celebrated Sheikh Ariyibi’s humility, benevolence, and empathy.
He emphasized that the late scholar was not only highly knowledgeable but also consistently embodied the principles he taught.
Both Imam Salihu and Sheikh Dan-Borno acknowledged Sheikh Ariyibi’s passing as a profound loss to the global Muslim community.
They concluded with prayers asking Allah to accept his soul and grant him eternal peace in Al-Jannah Firdaus.
