Two decades after his passing, the life and legacy of the late Sheikh Salaudeen Orikolade Siyanbola Oladigbolu, a revered Islamic scholar and community leader, were celebrated in grand style as dignitaries, clerics, and traditional rulers gathered to honour his memory.
Sheikh Salaudeen Kolade, the proprietor of Morkaz Dahawat Islamiya, Agunpopo, Oyo, was a Son of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abubakar Siyanbola Oladigbolu, who ruled Oyo between 1911-1944.
The commemorative event, held today in Oyo, drew prominent figures including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, Islamic scholars, the Ceo of Ocean Track Holdings, Prince Afeez Kolade Siyanbola Ladigbolu, political leaders, and community stakeholders, who described Sheikh Oladigbolu as “a beacon of faith, knowledge, and selfless service to humanity.”
Speaking at the event, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, extolled the late scholar’s virtues, highlighting his immense contribution to Islamic education and moral reformation during his lifetime.
The monarch noted that Sheikh Salaudeen Kolade’s teachings and humanitarian gestures continue to inspire younger generations within and beyond the state of Oyo.
Prominent Islamic clerics also led prayers for the repose of his soul, urging the Muslim faithful to emulate his exemplary lifestyle of humility, discipline, and dedication to community development.
Also, the CEO of Ocean Track Holdings, Prince Afeez Kolade Ladigbolu stated that today’s remembrance is a celebration of the late Islamic cleric’s teachings, preachings that have further reshaped the progress of Oyo Alaafin and beyond.
“Sheikh Salaudeen Kolade’s contributions towards the Islamic affairs of Yorubaland cannot be overlooked” Prince Afeez stated.
He however, prays to Allah to grant the deceased and their grandfathers Aljanat fridaus.
Family members of the late Sheikh Salaudeen Kolade expressed profound gratitude to attendees for keeping his legacy alive, emphasizing that the 20-year remembrance was not just a moment of reflection but a celebration of enduring values rooted in service to God and mankind.
In his goodwill message, the Khalifah Salaudeen Akolade remarked that Sheikh Salaudeen Kolade Oladigbolu’s legacy remains timeless, stressing that “his life reminds us that true leadership is measured by impact, not position.”
The event featured Qur’an recitations, lectures, and tributes, with participants reaffirming their commitment to uphold the ideals for which Sheikh Oladigbolu was known — faith, integrity, and education.
