Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned Islamic scholar and academic, Professor Badmas Olanrewaju Yusuf.
Professor Yusuf, a former Dean of the Postgraduate School at the University of Ilorin and Chief Imam of Al-Hilal Crescent Jumu’ah Mosque, passed away on Friday after a brief illness. He was also a distinguished Professor of Qur’anic Studies in the Islamic Studies Unit, Department of Religions, University of Ilorin.
Until his death, the late scholar rendered decades of meritorious service to the Muslim community and the education sector, serving in several capacities, including as Chairman of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
In a condolence message through Nasif Sholagberu, his Media Assistant on Friday, Senator Mustapha, who is also the Turaki of Ilorin, described Professor Yusuf’s death as shocking, painful, and deeply devastating, especially coming at a time when the state is still mourning the recent demise of the Chief Imam of Ilorin.
The lawmaker extended his condolences to the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari; the Kwara State Government; the management, staff, and students of the University of Ilorin; members of the Ilorin Emirate Professors’ Association; the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU); the Council of Ulamas; and the Maimasa family of the Gambari community.
According to Senator Mustapha, the passing of Professor Yusuf is a colossal loss to the Ilorin Emirate, the academic community, and the Muslim Ummah, noting that the late scholar was widely respected for his humility, dedication, and lifelong commitment to scholarship and service to humanity.
“Professor Badmas Yusuf lived a life of impactful service, deep scholarship, and unwavering commitment to the propagation of Islam and academic excellence. His contributions to Islamic education, public service, and community development will remain indelible,” the Senator said.
He also sympathised with the Council of Ulamas on the loss of one of its eminent members and urged the family and the entire Ilorin community to take solace in the exemplary life and enduring legacies left behind by the deceased.
Senator Mustapha prayed Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late Professor Badmas Yusuf, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and comfort his family, associates, students, and the entire Muslim community.
.jpeg)