Aare Abdulganiyu Owodunni: Celebrating a life of service, faith and enduring legacy, by Fatai SANNI

Abdulganiyu Owodunni: Celebrating a life of service, faith and enduring legacy, by Fatai SANNI

The passing of Aare Musulumi of Ogbomosoland, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Owodunni, remains a painful loss not only to his immediate family but also to the entire Ogbomoso community, the Muslim Ummah, and Nigeria at large. As family members, friends, associates and admirers gather to mark his 40-day Fidau prayers, it is only fitting to reflect on a life truly devoted to humanity, religion, education and community development.

Aare Abdulganiyu Owodunni hailed from the renowned Owodunni family of Ogbomoso. True to the meaning of the family name, “Owodunni”—meaning “it is good to have wealth”— he demonstrated throughout his lifetime that wealth attains its highest value when used in the service of humanity. His life was a practical example of generosity, compassion and selfless service.

One of the greatest legacies of the late Aare Musulumi was his unwavering commitment to education. His contributions to both Islamic and Western education are second to none in Ogbomosoland and beyond. He firmly believed that education is the key to societal transformation, and he dedicated enormous resources, time and energy to ensuring that quality education remained accessible to the masses.

The noble character and passion for service displayed by Aare Abdulganiyu Owodunni were hereditary. His brother, who also served as the Aare Musulumi of Ogbomosoland before him, laid a remarkable foundation by establishing the first free Arabic educational institution in the area—Akhbarudeen Institute of Arabic and Islamic Education. Established many decades ago, the institution was created to provide free and quality education in Arabic and Islamic studies and to award diplomas in these disciplines.

Today, the institute remains a shining light in Islamic scholarship. It has produced countless scholars who have made significant contributions to Islamic and Arabic education within and outside Nigeria. Its affiliation with Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, further opened opportunities for many graduates to advance their studies and obtain university degrees in Arabic and Islamic Studies. This achievement stands as a testimony to the visionary leadership and educational philosophy upheld by the Owodunni family.

In addition to the institute, Akhbarudeen College was established to provide free lower basic and upper basic education for the people of Ogbomosoland irrespective of religious background. Decades after its establishment, the school continues to thrive, producing students capable of competing favourably with their counterparts across the globe. Many distinguished professionals, scholars and accomplished individuals in various fields proudly trace their academic roots to the institution.

Beyond education, both Akhbarudeen Institute and Akhbarudeen College have contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of Ogbomoso. They have provided employment opportunities for numerous citizens and have served as sources of livelihood for many families through business activities and regular salaries for employees. Their impact extends beyond classrooms into the economic well-being of the community.

Aare Abdulganiyu Owodunni’s contributions to the development of Ogbomosoland were not limited to education alone. He also played important roles in agriculture, commerce and other sectors that enhanced economic growth and improved the welfare of many people. As a successful business mogul whose enterprises spanned both Northern and Southern Nigeria, he created opportunities, built relationships and contributed significantly to national economic activities.

His commitment to Islam was extraordinary. He devoted his time, wisdom, influence and financial resources to the growth and progress of Islam without hesitation. Whenever issues concerning the welfare of the Muslim community arose, he stood firmly in support. His dedication earned him immense respect among Islamic scholars, leaders and followers.

Aare Owodunni’s passion for the development of his hometown also brought him into close association with the revered throne of the Soun of Ogbomosoland. He understood the importance of unity, peace and collective progress, and he consistently supported initiatives aimed at advancing the fortunes of Ogbomoso.

Another enduring legacy of the late Aare Musulumi is the establishment of the Akhbarudeen Islamic Movement, headquartered at Akhbarudeen Central Mosque, Caretaker Area, Ogbomoso. The movement has grown tremendously, with branches spread across both Southern and Northern Nigeria, continuing to propagate Islamic teachings and uphold the values he cherished.

Indeed, the death of Alhaji Abdulganiyu Owodunni is a monumental loss to the Owodunni family, the Akhbarudeen dynasty, Ogbomosoland and Nigeria as a whole. However, while death is inevitable, legacies endure. His investments in education, religion, economic empowerment and community development will continue to speak for him for generations to come.

As we remember him during his 40-day Fidau prayers, we pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives his shortcomings, rewards his numerous good deeds and grants him Al-Jannatul Firdaus as his eternal abode. May Allah also grant his family, associates and the entire Muslim Ummah the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Aare Abdulganiyu Owodunni lived not merely for himself but for humanity. Truly, his was a life well spent.

Saani is a public affairs commentator