Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayi roji'un
It was in the morning of Saturday 24th April, 2021, (12 Ramadan, 1442) that i got a call from Alhaji Amidu that Baba Salawu was a bit indisposed. I joined him and we moved Baba to his private hospital where the doctor there after examination referred him to UCH, Ibadan, for a more comprehensive medical attention.
He was billed for surgery the following day (Sunday morning) and when all arrangements have been concluded on Sunday morning to move him to the Theater, his condition changed and every effort could not savage the situation. He was reciting Surat Yasin with constant prayers for his children till he breathed his last as i was by his side helpless.
Baba Salawu as he was affectionately referred was a good man, father, husband and decent human being, very rare to find. He greatly influenced me positively as he has a way of looking at someone that spoke approval and a spirit that conveyed love.
I have taken Baba Salawu as a father figure, friend, confidant and counselor and it was just now as i am writing this tribute that it dawn on me that he has returned to his creator.
From the time our paths crossed, he made me feel wanted. In fact, i honestly don't remember ever going through an awkward transition of a "stranger" to being one of his trusted and loved one.
Baba Salawu compassion for others was so infectious and deep. He treated people with kindness, respect, trust, simplicity and generosity. Many life were blessed through his goodness as you would not miss any solat whenever you are with him. I also attested to many troubled marriages that were restored through his admonition.
He is survived by all his 5 children, Yemi, Tunde, Bukola, Tolu and 'Lolade. None of them and the grandchildren pre-deceased him, Aliamudulillahi.
He was an exemplary and devout Muslim. He attended Yusurullahi Association of Nigeria (YAN) where he voluntarily and joyfully took up the responsibilities of welfare activities before,during and after Asalatu every Sunday.
Life is a comedy and tragedy. The minute you are born, you spend the rest of your life either living or dying, Allahu Akbar, the former is what Baba Salawu represented.
Baba Salawu is neighbour's pride and delight as his community value were immeasurable. The things we do for ourselves are gone when we are gone, but the things we do for others remain as our legacy.
I am no longer grief at his demise, but thankfully and fully convinced that he should now be in Aljanah Fridous.
Baba Salawu deserves garlands not wreaths, Praises not tears, Smiles not sorrow and Happiness not sadness.
Baba Salawu, we bid you farewell, but this farewell is one we rather not do now, we wish we could have you for more years at least to do our domestic, political, religious and other general discussion we are used to as Tunde reminded me a couple of days ago. However, almighty Allah (swt) has decided that He needs you more than us, hence,we reluctantly have to let go.
You will forever be part and parcel of us, death only took your body, but Allah has your immaculate soul
*Indeed we belong to Allah and indeed to Him we shall return*
Sun re o, *Alhaji Alaman Yekeen Bolatito Salawu* erusin Olorun to to, oninu re, oniwa re.