Turaki of Ilorin and Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has expressed grief over the death of former Dean of the Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin, and Chief Imam of Al-Hilal Crescent Jumu’ah Mosque, Professor Badmas Olanrewaju Yusuf.
Professor Yusuf, a renowned Islamic scholar, accomplished academic, and distinguished Professor of Qur’anic Studies in the Islamic Studies Unit of the Department of Religions, University of Ilorin, passed away on Friday after a brief illness.
Until his death, he had served the Muslim community and the education sector in various capacities, including as Chairman of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
In his condolence message by his Media Side, Nasif Sholagberu, Senator Mustapha described the death of the respected cleric and scholar as shocking, painful, and deeply devastating, particularly coming at a time when the state is still mourning the demise of the Chief Imam of Ilorin.
The lawmaker extended his heartfelt 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 Gambari community.
According to him, the passing of Professor Yusuf represents a colossal loss to the Ilorin Emirate, the academic community, and the Muslim Ummah, noting that the late scholar was a symbol of humility, dedication, scholarship, and service to humanity.
He said Professor Badmas Yusuf lived a life of impactful service, deep scholarship, and unwavering commitment to the propagation of Islam and academic excellence.
The Senator explained that his contributions to Islamic education, public service, and community development will remain indelible.
He sympathised with the Council of Ulama on the loss of one of their eminent members and urged the family and the entire Ilorin community to take solace in the exemplary life and enduring legacies of the deceased.
The Senator prayed Almighty Allaah 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 during this moment of profound grief.
