The immediate former Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola is a deeply religious man who other politicians must emulate.
This was the advice on Osogbo by the Chief Imam, while delivering his sermons at a special service on Friday.
“Politicians should learnt from him.
If he has not been a good man he would not have been able to return to the warm reception of his people “ the cleric said to a huge congregation on Friday.
He went further to state that “Some politicians, if they return to their people, they will be stoned.
“Aregbesola is an energetic man. He doesn’t give up he doesn’t get tired.
Muslims must show good examples and use their opportunities to benefit humanity.”
Imam Ajisafe Animasaun, in his sermon, went further saying that “Even in behavior, God has blessed him with good conduct. He spends in the way of God. He never forgot Clerics even as Minister. He would send rams to clerics during the festivities and would add money.
You all remember how this mosque ( Osogbo Central Mosque) was . He came here and complained about the state of the mosque. We never knew he had in his mind what he wanted to do. God used him to renovate this mosque.”
He encouraged politicians to always strive to use their positions of authority to serve God and see to the advancement of humanity, saying it is the only window to be on the right side of the Almighty on the day of reckoning.
The Chief Imam stated: “As a Governor, he was with us and represented both himself and the Muslim community well in bringing development to the State of Osun. This was the path he continued when he became a minister.
“Rauf is a true servant of Allah. God’s Grace has always reflected and remarkably in life. The way he has associated with Muslims and contributed to the growth of Islam in Osogbo and Osun in general is noteworthy.
“We thank Allah on your behalf. Being in public office or serving humanity is not a mean feat. You have survived all the challenges of leadership and succeeded tremendously in all the positions of authority you have held. You are a definition of rarity in humanity and excellence.
“The opportunity to serve the masses and lead is not a leeway to move away from serving God and contributing ones quota to people and humanity in general. We have a good example in the former governor and ex-minister who has never because of the exalted positions he has occupied forgotten Islam and his people.”
While Responding, the former minister thanked the Muslim community for its support.
Aregbesola pledged to continue to work for the growth of Osogbo and Osun in general, just as he urged people to embrace patience and peaceful co-existence at all times.
Quoting from Suratul Al-Imran of the Holy Quran, the ex-governor enjoined people of all faith to remain steadfast in obedience to God and embrace patience with one another.
He said: “I was here in 2011 and all of you prayed for me. Your prayers have continued to strengthen me to excel in all ramifications. I cannot forget all that you did for me to make us succeed here in Osun and as a federal appointee. That is why I am here to thank you.
“The love that you have shown me over the years has transformed me from a resident of Osogbo to an indigene of Osogbo. I feel at peace being here with you all the time because of the solidarity and honour you continue to give me. I am grateful.
“My admonition to us all is to take to Allah’s directive of embracing patience at all times as it is key to being successful in life and in the hearafter. Allah has promised us his good tidings and endless blessings if we are patient. Let us show patience in all our affairs because it is only those who are patient that Allah stands solidly behind and blesses.”
Special prayers were offered for the ex-minister, his family, aides, political associates and friends as well as the Ataoja of Osogboland, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Larooye II, who attended the Jumat Service.