I would like to pay tribute to the memory of the esteemed Shaykh, Dr. Muhammad Ali Olukade, one of the most distinguished scholars to emerge from Ilorin. As a medical doctor by profession, Dr. Olukade devoted his life to serving Allah and humanity. His remarkable legacy includes founding the first Islamic hospital in Kwara State, Tim Hospital, Ilorin.
For many years, Dr. Olukade delivered thought-provoking lectures under the trees of the Ilorin Central Mosque, immediately after Friday (Juma’ah) prayers. His Ummah followers have continued this tradition to date, a reflection of his lasting influence. Notably, Dr. Olukade practiced asceticism with steadfast commitment, wearing only white garments throughout his life, even as a trained medical doctor. Subhanallah!
As a fearless Islamic activist, Dr. Olukade embodied humility, generosity, and a down-to-earth approach. His life serves as a shining example for our youths to study and emulate.
What’s more remarkable about Dr. Olukade’s life was his selflessness and compassion. He carried the responsibilities of others while he had his own personal problems. He catered for the needy from his own personal salary to the extent that he had no personal savings. A medical Doctor of repute who had no personal house of his own, no car, no personal bank account, had just three sets of white clothes and two pairs of sandals, what a rare gem.
Dr. Olukade’s life was cut short at the prime age of 48 years, but his legacy continues to inspire and motivate us. Our society must learn to celebrate great personalities like this, not the rogues, yahoo Alfas, and ritualists who are damaging the fabric of faith sewn by Shaykh Alimi and other great scholars in Ilorin.
May Allah grant Dr. Muhammad Ali Olukade the highest paradise, Al-Jannah Firdaus. May He strengthen his immediate family and the entire Ummah he left behind. May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come, and may his memory remain a blessing for all who knew him.
Aa’meen, Aa’meen, Aa’meen.
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