Sheikh Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, the Chief Imam of Owo and chairman of the Ondo State League of Imams and Alfas, has passed away.
Aladesawe, the secretary-general of the League of Imams and Alfas of Yoruba Land, Edo, and Delta States, died on Monday evening at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, at 91.
He was widely respected as both a religious and community leader. His death has plunged the Muslim community in Owo and beyond into mourning.
A close associate and prominent son of Owo, Kamorudeen Ishola, confirmed the cleric’s passing in Akure, the Ondo State capital. Ishola stated that the Janazah (Islamic burial rites) will occur in Owo on Tuesday, September 16, at 2:00 p.m.
Aladesawe, a former school principal, combined his background in education with decades of Islamic scholarship to guide and inspire generations of the faithful.
He was known for his humility, wisdom, and commitment to peace. Many in Owo regarded him as a father figure who worked tirelessly to promote harmony among faiths and uphold moral values in society.
His passing marks the end of an era for Owo, where he was seen not only as a spiritual leader but also as a custodian of tradition and a mentor to younger clerics.
In a condolence message, the Ondo State governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described Aladesawe as “a revered cleric, a spiritual guide of uncommon wisdom, and a source of inspiration to the Muslim Ummah and the larger society.”
Aiyedatiwa, in a personally signed statement made available to LEADERSHIP in Akure, said, “His life was dedicated to the service of Allah (SWT) and humanity, and he will be fondly remembered for his unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and moral guidance.”
The governor added, “It is with profound sorrow that we received the news of the passing of Sheikh (Dr.) Imam Alhaji Mayor Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, the Chief Imam of Owo, who until his demise at the age of 91 served as the Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo State, as well as the League’s Secretary-General in the Southwest, Edo, and Delta States.
“On behalf of the government and people of Ondo State, I extend heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the Muslim Ummah, and the entire people of Owo. Though we mourn his departure, we take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life of faith, knowledge, and impact.
“We pray to Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and comfort all who mourn this great loss.”
