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By Muinat Usman
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called on Nigerians to uphold truth, integrity and peaceful coexistence as the country approaches another election cycle.
Fagbemi made the call at the Fidau prayer for the late Prince Alhaji Uthman Oyewuyi, a centenarian and respected community leader in Ijagbo, Kwara State.
The AGF said the life of the deceased offered important lessons for Nigerians, particularly at a time when political activities could heighten tensions and test the nation’s commitment to justice and peaceful coexistence.
He described Oyewuyi as an icon, a devout Muslim and scholar who was committed to the truth and never afraid to correct wrongdoing, irrespective of who was involved.
Fagbemi said the late community leader’s ability to stand by the truth and mediate disputes demonstrated the kind of character needed in public life and national development.
He urged Nigerians, especially political actors and community leaders, to emulate such values by placing the interests of society above personal or political considerations.
The AGF also recalled the deceased’s contribution to education, saying he was among the pioneers who contributed to the establishment of Ansarudeen Primary School, Ijagbo, in 1958.
According to him, Oyewuyi and other members of his generation played significant roles in laying the foundation for the educational development of the community.
Fagbemi also highlighted the deceased’s commitment to supporting education beyond his immediate family, noting that he provided financial assistance to some people to enable them pursue their education.
He said the educational achievements of the family, including two professors among his children, were part of the enduring legacy of the deceased.
Fagbemi appealed to members of the community to ensure that the leadership vacuum created by Oyewuyi’s death was filled by a person who would uphold honesty, courage and service to the people.
The late Oyewuyi was the Baba Baale of Sagodo, Olori Ebiof of the entire Ile Oba, and Naibul Imam of Ijagbo.
His eldest son, Alhaji Nureni Wole Jimoh, described him as a scholar, truthful and caring father who was committed to peace and justice.
Jimoh said his father was respected for standing firmly by the truth and helping to resolve disputes among members of the community.
Also speaking, Professor Mubasiru Uthman described the deceased as a devoted Islamic scholar who valued both Islamic and Western education.
Professor Mubasiru said Oyewuyi was among the pioneers who contributed to the establishment of Ansarudeen Primary School, Ijagbo.
The speakers urged the family and community to sustain the values for which the deceased was known, while praying for the repose of his soul.
Dignitaries at the event included a representative of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II,Chief Medical director a University of ilorin Teaching Hospital Professor Bilyaminu Sikirullah ,the Kabiyesi, Onijagbo of Ijagbo; the Olori Omo Oba of Ijagbo, Prince Ayo Fagbemi; the Chief Imam of Ansarudeen, Ilorin Branch; and the National Missioner of Ansaru Islam, among others.
Editing: Abdullah Ahmed
