Prominent personalities and religious leaders have charged members of society to embrace moral uprightness, positive attitudinal change and good deeds, stressing that every living soul will one day give an account of its stewardship before God after death.
The admonition formed part of the messages delivered by clerics and distinguished personalities at a Fidau prayer held in honour of the late Alhaja Mujidat Arike Adepoju, wife of the Oniro of Otu, Oba Sunday Adepoju Ayilola, Gbadewolu I.
The event, which was characterised by remarkable interfaith unity, had both Muslim and Christian clerics in attendance alongside several dignitaries.
Among those present was the Oyo State Acting Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the Deputy Governor on Legal Matters, Barrister Hassan Ajibade, and the Special Adviser on Online Media, Hon. Ajibade Waheed.
Members of the Oke-Ogun Traditional Council of Obas were also in attendance, led by the Secretary of the Council, Oba Michael Kofoworola Abodunrin Olakanla, the Aare of Ago-Are.
The Fidau prayer was further graced by religious leaders, including the Chief Imam of Otu Land, Sheikh Yusuf Tijani Ayodabo, as well as the representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Itesiwaju Local Government, Rev. Dr. M.O. Olabiyi. Others included Rev. M.A. Adeagbo and Rev. S.O. Omidara.
The gathering reflected the high level of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence among the people of Otu.
Speaking on the life of the deceased, the Mufasir of Otu Land, Sheikh Yusuf Muh Nafiu, and Alfa Abdullahi Abdul Wahab described the late Alhaja Mujidat Arike Adepoju as a woman who lived a life worthy of emulation.
They also spoke about the uncommon affection shared between the Oniro of Otu, Oba Sunday Adepoju, who is a Christian, and his late wife, who was a Muslim.
The clerics maintained that the essence of human existence is to worship God and live a morally upright life.
Sheikh Yusuf stressed that the world rests on four fundamental principles which explain moral uprightness and human existence, urging members of society to cultivate good deeds and extend support to the less privileged through almsgiving.
In his message, Alfa Abdullahi Abdul Wahab also emphasised the need for moral uprightness, particularly among leaders, calling for positive change, proper reorientation and improved conduct among the people.
Similarly, while preaching on the theme, “The Fear of God,” Rev. M.A. Adeagbo urged individuals to always carry the fear of God in their hearts.
He observed that the world is constantly changing and that nothing remains permanent, stressing the need for people to prepare for the end of life.
Rev. Adeagbo further emphasised that life and the world are ephemeral, urging everyone to live an impactful and meaningful life.
In their separate messages, the Aare of Ago-Are, the Oluigbo of Igbojaye, Oba Zaccheous Oladimeji Olatunji, the Oniro’s first wife, Olori Adepoju Olabisi Caroline, and her daughter, Princess Eniola Adepoju Pius, among others, paid glowing tributes to the late Olori, describing and celebrating her uncommon character and virtues.
In his goodwill message, the Oyo State Acting Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, represented by Barrister Hassan Ajibade, extolled the virtues of goodness, commitment and humility demonstrated by the late Alhaja Mujidat Adepoju in her relationship with her husband, family and society.
The Acting Governor prayed for the repose of her soul and asked God to grant the family the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
