By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Eti-Osa, Lagos State – May 19, 2025:
The Muslim community in Eti-Osa and beyond has been thrown into mourning following the passing of a revered Islamic scholar and founder of Al-Mumin Islamic Foundation, Al-Imam Sheikh AbdulMumin Mutolib Oniwasi. He died peacefully at his residence in Eti-Osa, Lagos, on Sunday, May 18, at the age of 80.
Sheikh Oniwasi, a highly respected Islamic cleric and educator, was known for his unwavering commitment to the propagation of Islam through peaceful preaching and the consistent promotion of the oneness of Allah. He will be laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites today, Monday, May 19, in his hometown of Ilorin, Kwara State.
Throughout his lifetime, the Sheikh played a pivotal role in raising a generation of young Islamic scholars through his Arabic and Islamic school. Many of his students graduated with a deep understanding of Qur’anic recitation and Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), contributing significantly to Islamic knowledge and leadership in their communities.
A devout and tolerant preacher, Sheikh Oniwasi was admired for his humility, wisdom, and ability to unite people across sectarian divides within Islam. His influence extended across Lagos State and beyond, as he often featured in religious gatherings, public lectures, and community development initiatives.
READ ALSO:NBTE Approves Markaz for Legal Studies, Offers National Diplomas in Combined and Common Law
In a phone call of condolence with The Merit Newspaper, one of Sheikh Oniwasi’s sons-in-law, Uztaz AbdulSemiu Ibrahim, expressed deep sorrow over the cleric’s passing. He offered prayers for the deceased, saying, “May Almighty Allah grant him Al-Jannat Al-Firdaus and give all his successors the fortitude to bear this great loss.”
Meanwhile, one of the Sheikh’s sons, Uztaz Sulaiman AbdulMumin, who is currently on pilgrimage in Mecca for the 2025 Hajj, also shared his grief on Facebook despite being far from home. In a heartfelt tribute, he wrote:
“Innalillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. With a heart that surrenders to Allah’s decree, I share the passing of my dear father, Sheikh AbdulMumin Oniwasi. I kindly ask for your prayers for him. May Allah forgive all his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannat Al-Firdaus. Bijahi Rasuulullah (SAW).”
Tributes have continued to pour in from students, fellow scholars, and members of the Muslim community who described the late Sheikh as “a light in Islamic scholarship” and “a man of profound spiritual insight and dedication.”
As the Islamic world bids farewell to one of its passionate voices, his legacy continues in the lives of the many he mentored, taught, and guided.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
