Tuesday night, Shaykh Abdul-Afis Aṣamu Abou, 101, the Baba Adinni of Lagos and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Lagos Central Mosque, passed away.
His funeral, or Janazah, is set for this Wednesday, January 10, at 2:00 PM at the Lagos Central Mosque.
Prior to his passing, Shaykh Abou oversaw the Lagos Central Mosque Executive Council’s effort to recapture the mosque’s Dodan Barracks property.
Notable people have expressed their deepest sympathies, recognizing Sheikh Abou’s extraordinary life and impact. Speaking of his “inspiring legacy,” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised his dedication to the Muslim Ummah and his excellent moral compass.
He expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased, the Lagos Muslim community, and the Lagos State Government.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu’s Special Advisor on Media and Publicity, released a statement in which he honored Baba Abou’s extraordinary record of sacrifice, devotion, and dedication. He recognized the late Sheikh’s outstanding services to Lagos State, the Muslim Ummah, and other areas.
He said: “Baba dedicated his life to the service of the people. He lived a full life guided by the highest and noblest moral codes. He was a fine example for all of us. He will be sorely missed. We should take solace in Baba’s legacy and uphold his values of honesty, dignity, and sacrifice.”
President Tinubu prayed for Baba Abou to be granted the highest station in Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Echoing same views, Senator Idiat Adebule of the Lagos West District described him as a “thoroughbred scholar” whose knowledge transcended national boundaries.
Her sincere condolences went out to the family of Sheikh Abou, the Muslim community in Lagos, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Senator Adebule conveyed his appreciation for Baba’s impeccable life. Sheikh Abou, according to her, was a genuine scholar whose impact went beyond Nigeria.
The former deputy governor of Lagos State emphasized that Nigerians would miss Baba’s intelligent opinions on a variety of topics and the insight he provided in handling pressing situations.
“Nigeria has lost a great icon. He was an embodiment of knowledge, wisdom and good character. Baba was a highly humble person. He related with everyone irrespective of age, tribe or religious affiliations.
“Nigerians will miss him. His death is a great loss to the Muslim community. On behalf of the people of Lagos West Senatorial District, I commiserate with the immediate family of Sheikh Abdul Afis Abou, the Muslim community, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Lagosians on the loss of a revered scholar.
“May Allah overlook Baba’s shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. I pray to Allah to give the immediate family the strength to bear the loss,” she said.
