By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Family members, political associates, friends, and well-wishers gathered to offer prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Alhaji Oyesiku Abdulsemiu Amosun, fondly known as Alhaji Oye “Sheko”, during his 8th-day Fidau prayer held in Abeokuta.
The solemn Islamic prayer session was marked by emotional tributes, reflections on the deceased’s life of service, and supplications to Almighty Allah for the forgiveness of his shortcomings and admission into Aljannah Firdaus.
Speaking during the gathering, the wife of the deceased, Mrs Remilekun Oluranti Amosun (née Banalola), described her late husband as a devoted family man, a compassionate leader and a man whose life revolved around faith, kindness and service to humanity.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return,” she said solemnly.
“Though the pain of his departure is still very fresh in our hearts, we are comforted by the impactful life he lived and the love he shared with everyone around him. He was not just my husband, he was my backbone, my adviser and a man who always put his family first.”
She expressed deep appreciation to everyone who supported the family during their period of grief.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who came to pray with us today and those who have stood by us since his passing. Your prayers, visits and words of encouragement have given us strength in this difficult time. May Almighty Allah reward you all abundantly,” she added.
Also paying tribute, Mr Abioro Damilare Athande, described as a political mentee of the late Amosun, said the deceased played a significant role in mentoring young people and encouraging them to pursue purposeful lives.
According to him, the late Alhaji Amosun was a man who believed strongly in empowering the younger generation and guiding them towards responsible leadership.
“I personally benefited from his fatherly advice and political guidance. He was the kind of mentor who would correct you with love and push you to become a better person. His death is not just a loss to his family but to many of us who saw him as a mentor and a moral compass,” Athande said.
He further noted that the late community figure would be remembered for his generosity and willingness to help others regardless of their background.
“As a family, we sincerely appreciate everyone who honoured his memory by attending the Fidau prayers. Your presence shows how much he was loved and respected. We pray that Allah grants him eternal rest and grants us the strength to continue the good legacy he left behind,” he added.
READ ALSO:Abioro Athande Mourns Mentor, Alhaji Oyesiku Amosun, Describes Him as a Father Figure
In an appreciation message made available to journalists, the children of the deceased also thanked guests for their solidarity and prayers.
“We sincerely appreciate your presence at the Fidau prayers of our beloved father. Your support, prayers and kind gestures during this period have brought great comfort to our family. May Almighty Allah reward you abundantly, accept your prayers and grant you continued blessings,” the family stated.
Islamic clerics at the event emphasised the importance of living a life of righteousness, reminding attendees that death is an inevitable passage for all and urging them to always be mindful of their relationship with Allah and humanity.
Special prayers were offered for the deceased, his family and the community he left behind, with clerics praying that Allah forgives his sins, expands his grave, grants him light in his resting place and admits him into Aljannah Firdaus.
READ ALSO:Family, Friends Celebrate Life of Selfless Abeokuta Patriarch, Oyesiku Abdulsemiu Amosun
The event concluded with further words of comfort to the family and a call on the younger generation to uphold the values of integrity, generosity, and faith that the late Alhaji Amosun was said to represent throughout his lifetime.
