- Saraki gives out food items to mark memorial anniversary
Former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki on Thursday eulogized his late father, Dr Abubakar Olusola Saraki, noting that his impact in life still resonates many years after his death.
Saraki stated this on Thursday as family members, religious leaders and associates gathered at the GRA Ilofa home of the Sarakis for a prayer session in memory of the late patriarch, Dr Olusola Saraki, who died exactly 12 years ago.
The Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate, who was accompanied by his wife, Barr. Toyin Saraki, lauded his late father for his immeasurable sacrifice to humanity, noting that he still enjoys his influence in life.
In a statement issued by Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, his Press Officer on Local Matters, Saraki was quoted as saying, “Twelve years ago, my father, Oloye, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki, passed away. In those twelve years, I have come to realize that when someone like him leaves, they are never truly gone; the impact of their lives echoes through ours in ways that shape us and guide us — sometimes in ways that we do not always understand.
“Today, as I look back, I am deeply grateful for the years I had with him. I still feel his influence in my life, guiding me in ways I could never have predicted. I pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) will continue to grant him a place amongst the righteous ones in Aljannah Firdaus.”
The fidau prayers during the memorial anniversary was led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Dr Muhammad Bashir Soliu, supported by several other Islamic clerics. The Chief Imam prayed for the soul of Baba Saraki, and the family he left behind.
Delivering the first lecture, Shiekh Suleiman Danboronu said the event presents another opportunity for those alive to reflect on the good deeds of the late Oloye and learn from them.
Danboronu stated that Baba Saraki’s philanthropic gesture will forever be remembered by the people of Ilorin Emirate, Kwara and beyond.
He prayed for the continued repose of his soul. He also prayed to Allah to continue to strengthen his children as they keep up his good deeds.
Sheikh Buhari Omo Musa, who delivered the second lecture, praised Baba Saraki for his virtues of forgiveness and compassion, during his time, which helped him to nurture relationships with people and even political enemies.
The cleric said the late Saraki will always be remembered for his commitment to academic support and scholarship to the indigents.
Also speaking, Sheikh Abdulrasaq Aduagba said Baba Saraki stands out among many with his philanthropic nature, the spirit of togetherness, promotion of unity and development of the people.
He charged those present to be steadfast in their loyalty, support, and love for the late Saraki’s heir and the family, commending them for sustaining the good deeds of the family patriarch.
“We all can testify to how Baba Saraki has brought development to education through his support to secondary schools in Kwara. He supported many who he did not even know their background.
“It is great to know that the family is sustaining the good works. I’m proud to see how Dr Bukola Saraki has emulated Baba as a governor, as Senate President and even as an independent citizen out of political office.
“In the education sector, he is the brain behind Kwara State University, KWASU, Aviation College and many more,” he said.
Meanwhile, as part of activities to mark the day, Saraki distributed food items and cash to women at the famous Ile Arugbo, after the 12th memorial anniversary of his father .
Signed
Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir,
Press Officer on Local Matters,
Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office