- Fidau lecture emphasized legacy, accountability, and purposeful living
- National and international cooperative leaders paid glowing tributes
- Family expressed gratitude and reaffirmed commitment to his values
Family members, traditional leaders, cooperative stakeholders, and well-wishers on today gathered at Ogunmodede College, Papa, Epe, for the Fidau (Islamic prayer) in honour of High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola, the Arobayo of Epe Land and former President, International Co-operative Alliance (ICA), Africa.
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Eko Hot Blog reports that the solemn gathering drew the presence of council chairmen, the League of Imams and Alfas, educationists, cooperative members, family members, friends, and well-wishers, all united in prayers for the repose of his soul.
Delivering the Fidau lecture, Prof. Nosirudeen Onibon reminded attendees of the inevitability of death and the importance of legacy.
He said, “We must always remember that we shall all return one day, and the question is where are we returning to—God or hell? What legacy are we leaving behind?”
He described the late High Chief as a man who touched countless lives, noting that “the large gathering here today is a testimony to the impact he made,” and urged everyone to live consciously, adding that “the title ‘Late’ will one day be added to every name, so our daily activities must be guided by this truth.”
Paying tribute on behalf of the cooperative family, Mrs. Mershak Hannatu, President of the Cooperative Federation of Nigeria (CFN), described High Chief Ayeola as an exceptional leader whose life was defined by service. In a written tribute, she stated,
“High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola was a consummate cooperator who passed through all leadership structures, gathering extensive experience and culture that endeared him to all.”
She added, “He was down to earth, a humble servant leader, a teacher, a mentor, a giver, and an astute administrator.”
According to her, his sudden passing on Christmas morning came as a shock to the cooperative community nationwide.
“A vacuum has been created by his demise which only God can fill, but his legacy and impact on cooperative development in Nigeria will remain a reference point for years to come,” she said.
International tributes also poured in from across Africa and beyond. Hon. Wycliffe A. Oparanya, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, described the late chief as “a towering figure in the cooperative movement across Africa and the world,” adding that “his visionary leadership empowered communities and promoted people-centred, purpose-driven development.”
Similarly, Ariel Guarco, President of the International Cooperative Alliance (Global), said,
“He was not only an outstanding leader but also a dear friend. His wisdom and the moments we shared will remain cherished memories.”
In a joint message, the International Cooperative Alliance–Africa noted that “his leadership, integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to cooperative values have left an indelible mark on ICA-Africa and the global cooperative family.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Ayeola expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone who stood by them during the period of grief.
He thanked attendees for their prayers and support and spoke warmly about High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola’s life of service, humility, and dedication to humanity, noting that his legacy would continue to guide the family and all who were inspired by him.
Prayers were offered for Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and give the family the strength to bear the loss.
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