The immediate-past Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has described the late Osogbo-based Islamic Scholar, Sheik Abdulwahab Banni Afonta as a consummate social justice advocate and ethnic and morality promoter.
Aregbesola in a personal tribute on Tuesday also described the late cleric as a steadfast and devout preacher who stood firm with the Osun Renaissance Movement from inception till he breathed last.
The former governor of Osun prayed Allah to grant the departed Al-Jannah, as the late Sheik Afonta’s life was impactful.
His words: “I join the family, students, friends, followers, admirers and the Muslim Ummah in Osogbo and South West to mourn the transition of Sheik Abdulwahab Banni Afonta.
“Sheik Afonta was a consummate Islamic scholar and preacher. He was also a consummate social justice advocate and ethical and morality promoter.
“He was an early ally of our Osun Renaissance movement. He was steadfast with us till his translation.
“Departures and losses are usually painful. Nevertheless, they fill us with nostalgia about their person and character. But arrivals and recoveries are joyous and exhilarating. That is life on this realm.
“The Sheik has left our realm to the higher station and the unending paradox of life prevails.
“As we deeply mourn the translation of Sheik Abdulwahab Banni Afonta, we must pray for the highest station for him in Jannah, strength for the family to bear his departure and capacity to advance his works and legacy.
“Inna Lilahi Wa Hinna Illahi Rajiun,” the former Minister concluded.
Sodiq Yusuf is a trained media practitioner and journalist with considerable years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital journalism. His interests cover a wide range of causes in politics, governance, sports, community development, and good governance.
