Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun lamented the death of Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola, the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in the state and Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland, during the cleric’s burial on Sunday at Igan Alalade, Yewa North Local Government Area.
Governor Abiodun described the 98‑year‑old religious leader as a devoted Muslim and respected scholar who rose to the highest echelons of Islamic leadership in Ogun State. In his remarks, the governor highlighted Sheikh Babalola’s dual role as Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland and head of the state’s league of imams, noting that his influence extended across the Muslim community and beyond. “He was a man of God and a good man,” Abiodun said, adding that his passing represents a painful loss for both his family and the state, which is noted for its religious tolerance.
The Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Kunle Salako, also paid tribute, recalling the Sheikh’s lifelong commitment to serving humanity through Islam. Salako praised Babalola’s integrity and his advocacy for the interests of Yewaland, especially the younger generation, describing the loss as “huge” despite the cleric’s advanced age. He prayed that Allah would grant the late imam a place in Al‑Jannah al‑Firdaus.
A brief lecture at the ceremony was delivered by Dr. Raji Akano, Head of the Department of Arabic Studies at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta. Akano urged the assembled mourners to use their lives meaningfully, reminding them that death is inevitable and that Sheikh Babalola had completed his earthly mission and returned to his Creator.
Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola passed away on Saturday. His death marks the loss of one of Ogun State’s most prominent spiritual figures, whose leadership spanned religious, cultural, and community spheres. The governor and other officials called for prayers and reflections on the cleric’s legacy, emphasizing the need to uphold the values of integrity, generosity, and faith that he embodied.
