Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has described the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Alh. Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola has one whose life continues to be a testimony to the possibility of living as an adherent of one religion while acknowledging the need for religious tolerance and harmony in a multi-religious nation like Nigerian.
He noted that as a Muslim leader, he has provided inspirational leadership to millions of the faithful and used the high office in fostering understanding and unity amongst all, irrespective of their religion or ethnic background.
Obasanjo made this disclosure in a congratulatory letter to celebrate the Chief Imam’s 90th birthday anniversary which took place in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital on Sunday.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former President in the congratulatory letter dated Feb. 21, 2024 stressed further that, “as a true devotee and practical follower of the tenets of Islam, you have been an embodiment of piety, responsible conduct and peaceful propagation of your religion.
“We believe that this happy event is one worth celebrating, for the fact that Almighty Allah has not only blessed you with longevity but also with great talent and wisdom that you have deployed over the years in unblemished service to your community, your State and the nation,” Obasanjo was quoted as having stated.
Obasanjo, who visited the celebrant at his Sodeke area residence of the state capital before attending his 87th Thanksgiving Service at his Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Chapel of Christ the Glorious King explained that he would have personally wish to be at the birthday prayer session but, for the thanksgiving progamme, hence his decision to come to the house.
“I was on my way into the lift when I met my friend and brother and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi and his entourage arriving for the Church thanksgiving service. I immediately urged him to join me on this visit. So, also for the chairman of ADC and others that have joined me here this morning for this visit.”
The celebrant in his brief remark, said that the visit was a dream come true for him, as he had dreamt of receiving Obasanjo in his house about 50 years ago. According to him, “I followed my Spiritual Leader, Sheikh Adam El-Ilori to see the President, then as the Head of State and that night, I had a dream that the Head of State also visited me at my house. I felt who I am, that will receive such personality as guest in my house. I told my Spiritual Leader, and he said the dream shall come into fruition no matter how long it will take. But, look at it the dream coming to past after almost 50 years and we are both still alive.
“I am proud of this visit and I so much appreciated it. We shall continue to pray for you, because, we know your position in the black race and the world. Thank you,” the Imam said.
The celebrant later cut his birthday cake supported by Obasanjo and Obi, while a biography, “Resilience and Challenges: My Strength” of the celebrant was presented to the former President by the birthday Planning Committee.
The immediate past Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Baba Adinni of Yoruba, Edo and Delta States, Alh. Chief Sarafa Tunji Ishola, the National Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ralph Nwosu among others were on the visit.
