Ilorin traders closed down the bustling Agaka Spare Parts Market, setting aside their daily hustle to pay tribute to a cherished Islamic leader, Yahaya Olayiwola Ajia. This act of solidarity underscores the profound impact the late leader had on both the market community and the wider society.
- Traders at Agaka spare parts market shut down businesses to honor late Islamic leader.
- Yahaya Olayiwola Ajia remembered for his role as a pillar of peace and unity.
- Tributes pour in from various market groups, highlighting Ajia’s impact on diverse communities.
- Son of deceased vows to continue his father’s legacy of service.
Market Stands Still in Honor of Respected Leader
The usually vibrant Agaka spare parts market in Ilorin fell silent as traders unanimously decided to close their shops, demonstrating respect and affection for the late Yahaya Olayiwola Ajia, a revered Islamic figure. This moving tribute came during the eighth-day Fidau prayer, a traditional Islamic ceremony held to honor the deceased.
A Unifying Figure Remembered
Representatives from various trader unions, along with the Kuranga-Ajia family, organized the Fidau prayer. They spoke of Ajia’s significant role as a peacemaker within the market and the surrounding communities. Sulaiman Ahmed, Chairman of the Yoruba section of the Agaka/Baboko/Adabata auto spare parts dealers union, described Ajia as a father figure who mediated disputes and fostered unity among diverse groups.
Tributes from Across the Market Community
The Igbo traders’ representative, Sunday Okoroji, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Ajia’s commitment to unity irrespective of tribe or religion. The market’s Iyaloja (female leader), Latifah Ajanaku, also praised his contribution to progress and harmony within the trading community. These varied voices reflect the breadth of his influence.
A Son’s Promise to Continue a Legacy of Service
Dr. Abdulmumin Yinka Ajia, son of the deceased, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and promised to carry forward his father’s legacy of service to the Agaka community and Ilorin at large.
A Call for Continued Peace and Unity
During the prayer service led by Imam Mohammadu Jamiu of the Ita Ajia Sakasaka community mosque, attendees were urged to emulate Ajia’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and harmony.
About Yahaya Olayiwola Ajia
While specific details regarding his life and work remain limited in the initial report, the accounts from community members paint a vivid picture of a man dedicated to peace, unity, and service. Further investigation may reveal more about his personal history and contributions to Ilorin. This gap in information provides an opportunity for follow-up reporting and deeper exploration of his life story.
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