Mallam Yusuf Adepoju, Founder and Chief Lecturer of the Academy of Islamic Propagation (ACADIP), lost his father, Alhaji Jamiu Ishola Adepoju, in the early hours of Monday, Aug. 12.
TheNewsZenith reports that Alhaji Adepoju, a foremost Muslim Icon, died in his country home, Ilobu, aged 89.
Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) in Oyo State, announced the death of Alhaji Adepoju in a statement emailed to TheNewsZenith in Lagos.
In the statement, MURIC described the deceased as a distinguished educationist, administrator, philanthropist and community leader.
“He was a dogged fighter for social justice, transparency and sustainable Islamic identity.
“He was also one of the founders of the Muslim Students’ Society Of Nigeria (MSSN),” MURIC stated.
It recalled that Alhaji Adepoju was the pioneer Principal of Ilobu Secondary Commercial Grammar School (1972) and Nurudeen Grammar School, Ogbomoso (1978).
He played major roles in the establishment of some Muslim Secondary Schools like Ansar-Ud-Deen Grammar School, Ilobu, 2002 and elsewhere.
He taught in many schools and colleges in the defunct Western State of Nigeria before voluntarily retired on Dec. 31,1982.
The father of ACADIP founder contributed to the growth of Islam through his various activities and involvement in formation of many Islamic organisations in South West.
Among such Muslim bodies he helped to forstal are the Muslim Association of Nigeria (MAN), National Joint Muslim Organization (NAJOMO, formerly WESJOMO) and in the formation of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).
After retirement, Oyo State Government appointed Adepoju as Chairman of its Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (PWB) in 1984. Before then, he served as a Member of Western Nigeria PWB.
Adepoju, a Justice of the Peace, finds much delight in conflict resolution efforts, promoting scholarship among indigent students.
May Almighty Allah overlook his trespasses, widen his grave and make his Qiyamah and Al-Akhirah (Resurrection and Hereafter) events of joy for him.
As at press time, late Alhaji Adepoju, was being buried at the ACADIP MASJID, Ojutu Area, Ilobu, Osun State.
Do you have a flair for Citizenship Journalism? Share stories of happenings in your area with TheNewsZenith on WhatsApp: 08033668669 or thenewszenithonline@gmail.com. Also, follow us on www.tiktok.com/@thenewszenithonline