Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has expressed shock following the death of the Chief Imam of Lokoja Central Mosque, Sheikh, Mukadam, (Alh.) Jimada Shafiyi
The Governor, however, extolled Shafiyi, describing him as a simple, humble and serious Islamic teacher whose tutelage extended beyond Kogi State, even as he called on Islamic clerics to emulate the life led by the deceased.
The Governor’s message was contained in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Muhammed and made available to newsmen in Lokoja on Friday.
Governor Bello said the death of the Chief Imam was a devastating loss not only to Kogi State but also to the Islamic world. The Governor said the weight of the loss would be felt beyond the boundaries of Nigeria in view of the vastness and depth of his knowledge.
”I condole with the Maigari of Lokoja, the immediate family and disciples of the deceased, as well as the people of Kogi State and the Muslim community at large over the demise of Shiekh Jimada Shafiyi, the Chief Imam of Lokoja Central Mosque. I pray to Allah to forgive him all his shortcomings and make paradise his final resting place.”
