The Muslim community is in mourning following the death of one of its most revered figures, Alhaji Muyideen Bello. The renowned Islamic scholar, born in 1940 in Ibadan, was widely respected for his deep scholarship, tireless efforts in spreading Islamic teachings, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the Muslim Ummah.
The announcement of his passing was made on Friday morning by Alfa Aribidesi, a prominent Islamic scholar and the head of At-Tawdeeh Islamic Da’awah. The news was quickly corroborated by several other prominent figures, including Alhaji Basit Olarenwaju, better known as Aponle Anabi, an Islamic singer and a follower of the late scholar. He shared an image of the 84-year-old cleric with tearful emojis on his official Facebook page, expressing grief over the loss.
While the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, it marks the end of an era for a man who spent decades shaping the lives of countless individuals through his wisdom, guidance, and leadership.
Local media outlets in Oyo State have confirmed the demise of the distinguished cleric, and tributes have poured in from across Nigeria. Sheikh Taofeeq Akeugbagold, another respected Islamic figure, also confirmed the passing of Alhaji Bello in a poignant post on Facebook. He wrote: “Today is one of my saddest days! My father and mentor has returned to his Creator. SULTONUL WAHIZEEN of Yorubaland Sheikh Muyideen AJANI BELLO, may Allah be pleased with your soul. Aljannah fridaos for you. Our hearts are full of grief and our eyes full of tears, but we will say nothing but what will please our Creator, the sole commander of life and death – ALLAH.”
Reports from PUNCH Online suggest that funeral arrangements have yet to be formally announced. However, unverified sources indicate that the late scholar will be laid to rest according to Islamic rites on Friday evening.
Alhaji Muyideen Bello, known for his eloquence and profound understanding of Islam, was a beacon of knowledge. His teachings transcended generations, leaving a lasting impact on Muslims in Nigeria and beyond. According to Alfa Aribidesi, “Alhaji Bello’s guidance will continue to inspire and shape the Muslim community for years to come.”
Since the news of his passing, mourners have gathered at Alhaji Bello’s Akobo residence in Ibadan to pay their respects and console his grieving family. Live videos from the scene show a somber atmosphere, with many sharing stories of his impact on their lives and recalling his unwavering commitment to unity, peace, and enlightenment within the Muslim community.
Alhaji Muyideen Bello’s journey into Islamic scholarship began at a young age. According to a 2018 media report by Oyo Insight, he became a public speaker at just 10 years old. His passion for learning was evident early on, as he moved to live with his uncle, an Islamic scholar, in Ibadan at the age of nine to deepen his understanding of the Quran. Although originally from Ibadan, Bello spent much of his childhood with his father, who also taught him the Quran at Agbegilere, a farm settlement in Iwo, Osun State.
Bello’s dedication to learning and intellectual growth set him apart from many of his contemporaries. Unlike many of his peers, he embraced formal education, earning a National Certificate of Education (NCE). He also worked briefly in electronics, a trade he learned from his brother, which he believed would ensure a stable livelihood while pursuing his Islamic studies.
Alhaji Bello was known for his fearless sermons and his commitment to truth. As he once said, “From my childhood, I was noted for saying the truth no matter whose ox is gored. It is with utmost truth that we should speak God’s words every day.”
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes from Nigerians across social media channels have poured in, with many expressing their sadness and sharing fond memories of the late cleric’s teachings. Many have praised his legacy, calling it a testament to unwavering faith, the pursuit of knowledge, and the power of truth.
The Muslim community has lost a guiding light, but Alhaji Muyideen Bello’s influence will undoubtedly continue to resonate across generations.
