As hundreds of family, friends, followers and Muslim faithful across the country gathered to pay their last respect to the chairman league of Imams and Alfas in Ondo state, Sheik Ahmad Aladesawe, who passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has charged the people to emulate the Godly virtues of the late Grand Imam.
Until his death, Sheik Aladesawe was the third Grand Imam of Owo Land, Chairman League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo state and Secretary General of League of Imams and Alfas in Yoruba land, Edo and Delta states. He died at the age of 91.
At the janaza program for the repose of the soul of the late Imam in Owo on Tuesday, the governor, who was represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, described Sheik Aladesawe as a man of uncommon humility, detribalized Nigerian and a proud son of Owo kingdom, whose virtues should be emulated by all.
He said, “Sheik Aladesawe was at the forefront of the agitation for an egalitarian society, and was truly committed to democratic ideals. It is on record that the late Grand Imam served God diligently not by words alone but by his actions.
“The late Grand Imam loved God and was a rallying point for people of all tribes, religions and political orientation. Therefore, I urge you all to continue his legacy of selfless service, compassion and unity.
“Baba Aladesawe was an epitome of love, embodiment of integrity and a bridge-builder, who preached religious tolerance and rallied people of diverse faith to support our administration in sustaining peace in the state”
The governor condoled the people of Owo and the Muslim community in Ondo state for the loss of the highly revered Islamic cleric, saying Nigeria will miss his valuable contributions to national development.
In his speech, President General of the league of Imams and Alfas in the Southwest, Shaykh Jamihu Kewulere, described the late Grand Imam as a man of honor and immense knowledge, who stood for justice, equity and fairness.
Delivering his sermon, Grand Mufti of Ondo state, Shaykh Sirajudeen Al-Batuta, said, “Sheik Aladesawe, during his lifetime, was very influential and, a door to Owo, Ondo state and rabita”
The funeral program was attended by top government officials, including the state commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Alh. Amidu Takuro, Permanent Secretary Government House and Protocol, Alh. Mudashiru Adepegha, Chief Imams and representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), among others.
John Paul Akinduro,
Press Secretary to Ondo State Governor
(Office of the Deputy Governor)
September 17, 2025
