Eminent scholars and jurists have poured enconmiums on the pioneer Grand Khadi of Kwara State and pioneer chairman of the board of trustees of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), the late Justice AbdulKadir Orire, for his invaluable contributions to educational development and humanity during his life time.
Speakers, including a former Grand Khadi of Kwara State, Justice Idris Haroon, Professors Saudat AbdulBaqi and Lateef Oladimeji, national coordinator of Muslim Media Watch Group, Alh Ibrahim Abdullahi, eulogised the late Orire at an event marking the 70th anniversary of MSSN and third annual lecture in honour of Orire.
In his presentation, Justice Idris Haroon posited that Orire up to the time of his death gave his all to humanity, adding, ” Justice Orire assisted MSSN and similar bodies morally and financially. He was grand patron of MSSN, Kwara for many years before becoming BoT chairman at the national level. He always encouraged students to embrace excellency in their educational pursuits.
“He supported immensely educational programmes. He supported scholarship scheme to ensure that indigent Muslim youths pursue education career.
He lived and served humanity. He inspired young Muslims.
“Baba Orire had special interest in the young ones. I can’t forget him in my success as a judge.
Very transparent, honest and incorruptible. Very fearless in pursuing the truth and he was pious.”
The pioneer female professor of Mass Communication at the University of Ilorin, Saudat AbdulBaqi, said Orire played pivotal roles too numerous to count in the evolvement of MSSN in Nigeria, noting that, ” from the foundation, consolidation and the physical existence across the 36 state area units and FCT, Justice Orire was the pillar, patron and supportive father, standing very firm in all situations.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Kolawole Jimoh, highlighted the role of MSSN in fostering unity among Muslim students, promoting education, and contributing to social development in the country.
Prof Lateef Oladimeji of Al- Hikmah University, Ilorin said, “Baba Orire fought against victimization of Muslims.He did his best . We will continue to remember him because he had come and made his impact.”
