The Chief Imam of Lagos State Sheikh Garuba Akinola Ibrahim (Gana V), has died on Sunday September 24 at 79.
Reacting to his passing away, All Progressives Congress (APC) national stalwart, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said Sheikh Ibrahim would be sorely missed as he always put his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam at the disposal of many in Lagos.
In a statement issued last night in Lagos by Tinubu Media Office, Asiwaju Tinubu said: “I’m deeply saddened by the death of the Chief Imam of Lagos. But as Muslims, we must take every occurrence as the will of Allah.
“As the leading Islamic scholar in Lagos, Sheikh Ibrahim will be sorely missed not only by Muslim faithful but by the people of Lagos and South-west.
“Sheikh Ibrahim always put his deep knowledge and understanding of Islam at the disposal of many. Through his sermon and ‘Khutbat’, he drew attention to the various societal ills and suggested corrective steps.
“As Lagos State governor, I presented him with the staff of office as the 9th Chief Imam of Lagos on July 30, 2000 following the demise of his predecessor, the late Alhaji Liadi Alade Ibrahim (OBE). I will miss him personally. He brought calming words during our period of turmoil.
“I mourn with members of his immediate family. I mourn with Muslim Ummah in Lagos, across the country and the world. May Almighty Allah grant him Al Jannah Firdaus.”
Also, the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria have expressed condolence over the death of the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Alhaji Haruna Akinola.
Akinola, who assumed office in July 20, died on Sunday.
Reacting to the imam’s death’s announcement, President of the MSSN in Lagos State, Dr. Saheed Ashafa, described him as a worthy leader.
Ashafa urged other Islamic leaders to emulate the deceased, saying that his promotion of unity was outstanding.
He said, “The Muslim students in Lagos State sympathise with the Muslim Community on the loss of our father, His Eminence, Garuba Akinola. We pray that Allah forgives him and grant him Al-janat ul-Firdaus.
“He was indeed an epitome of unity for the Nigerian Muslims and a worthy father for all. He would be remembered for keeping Muslims together in the state and beyond.
“Although, the vacuum he left behind may appear difficult to fill but his legacy while alive would create a source of guidance for the Muslim community. May Allah accept his as one of the righteous.”
