Prof Raji was a distinguished scholar that will be sorely missed, Akire of Ikire-Ile mourns
By BASHIR ADEFAKA
The prominent Yoruba traditional leader and Akire of Ikire-Ile Kingdom, Ola-Oluwa Local Government, Osun State, South West Nigeria, His Royal Majesty Ọba Abdulazeez Olatunbosun Adebamiji, has reacted to the news of demise of Professor AbdulGaniyu Raji, who passed away at the weekend.
In a statement personally signed by the devout monarch titled, “A PIOUS AND NOBLE PROFESSOR IS GONE!!!” with a rider “Iña liLlahi wa-ina ilayhi rojihoon (meaning: from Allah we come and unto him we shall return)”, Oba Adebamiji described the passing of Professor Raji, who was Chairman Secretariat Advisory Committee of Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) till his last day on earth, as one that is “a profound loss”.
He said the professor was distinguished scholar and an inspiring teach and trailblazer that will be sorely missed.
The statement said, “The passing of Professor AbdulGaniyu Raji is a profound loss not only to his family but to the University of Ibadan, the field of Agricultural Engineering, the nation at large, and the entire Muslim Ummah. He was a distinguished scholar, an inspiring teacher, and a trailblazer whose intellectual depth and professional excellence advanced agricultural engineering practice and research beyond the walls of the university.
“Professor Raji was a man who understood learning as an act of worship and service. Through teaching, research, and mentorship, he fulfilled the noble calling of nurturing minds and contributing to societal development. His life reflected the timeless truth that “the ink of the scholar is more sacred than the blood of the martyr,” and his works will continue to benefit generations yet unborn.
“Professor Raji’s life was defined by service to knowledge, commitment to innovation, and the mentorship of countless students who today stand as living testaments to his impact. His contributions to agricultural development will continue to speak long after his departure, embedded in policy, practice, and the minds he shaped.
“Though he has transitioned to the great beyond, his legacy endures — etched in academic excellence, integrity, and selfless dedication to humanity. We pray that Allâh grants him Al-Jannatul Firdaus, forgives his shortcomings, and comforts his family, the University community, and the Muslim Ummah with patience and strength during this time of grief,” the Akire of Ikire-Ile prayed.
