Muyideen Bello: A Scholar for the Ages

• Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “No Muslim passes away on Friday, or its night, but that Allah will protect him from the trial of the grave.” – Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 1074

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Nigerian Muslim community mourns the passing of the revered Islamic scholar and preacher, Sheikh Muyideen Ajani Bello, who departed this world on the blessed morning of Friday, December 6, 2024, (06 Jumada Al-Akhirah 1446AH) at the age of 84. His passing has sent ripples of grief across the country.

Born in 1940 to the family of Alhaji Bello Ajani and Alhaja Ubaidat Bello of Arolu Compound, Ita Olukoyi, Ibadan, Sheikh Muyideen’s journey began in the humble environment of Iwo’s Agberire settlement. Raised by his Islamic scholar father, he displayed an early thirst for knowledge and began memorizing the Qur’an at a tender age. His drive for excellence led him to Ibadan, where he lived with his uncle and furthered both his Islamic and formal education.

In its statement, the Ansar-ud-deen Society of Nigeria lauded Sheikh Muyideen’s relentless efforts to harmonize Islamic teachings with the demands of modernity, noting that he was among the pioneers of integrating religious scholarship with formal education. “His early role as one of the pioneer teachers at Ansar-ud-deen College, Shaki, underscores his dedication to fostering young minds through Islamic values and secular knowledge,” the society noted.

Sheikh Muyideen’s foray into public preaching began at age 10, where he astounded crowds with his grasp of the Qur’an. This early exposure shaped his lifelong commitment to da’wah (Islamic propagation), cementing his reputation as a fearless preacher who prioritized truth and authenticity in all his sermons. “Truth is God’s word, and it must be spoken without fear or favor,” the late Sheikh often declared, a principle he upheld throughout his illustrious career.

His quest for knowledge and self-improvement also led him to acquire a National Certificate of Education (NCE), a rarity among clerics of his era. Sheikh Muyideen frequently emphasized the importance of formal education for clerics, urging Muslims to embrace learning as a tool for societal engagement and transformation.

Interestingly, Sheikh Muyideen had a distinctive personal style in his earlier years, often seen in his favorite attire—fitted shirts, suits (which he affectionately referred to as “coats”), and brightly colored ties. Reflecting on this phase, he fondly recalled, “At that time, I was so much in love with fitted shirts. I would wear my shirt, tie, and trousers, believing that it didn’t take anything away from my ability to take matters of Islamic religion seriously.” However, this would change after he relocated to Kano, following his decision to leave his teaching job in Abeokuta. It was in Kano that he would embark on a new phase of personal and spiritual transformation.

Throughout his life, Sheikh Muyideen’s sermons touched millions. Whether addressing contemporary issues or expounding on Qur’anic verses, his clarity of thought and unwavering faith earned him admiration far and wide. His ability to combine deep Islamic knowledge with modern realities positioned him as a bridge between generations of Muslims.

Sheikh Muyideen’s passing on a Friday, a day highly esteemed in Islam, has further heightened his revered status. According to a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Abdullah ibn Amr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “No Muslim passes away on Friday, or its night, but that Allah will protect him from the trial of the grave.” Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī 1074. While some scholars classify the hadith as hasan (acceptable), its comforting message resonates deeply with many Muslims, underscoring the Sheikh’s blessed departure.

Tributes have poured in from prominent figures. Sheikh Taofeek Akewugbagold called him a “father and mentor,” while Alhaji Basit Olanrewaju, also known as Aponle Anabi, shared heartfelt memories of the Sheikh’s humor and wisdom. “Nigeria has lost a giant in Islamic propagation,” he wrote.

The Ansar-ud-deen Society of Nigeria also urged Muslims to honor Sheikh Muyideen’s legacy by upholding his values of truth, learning, and service to humanity. Plans for a national prayer in his honor are underway, as his teachings and sermons remain a guiding light for Muslims across the nation.

Sheikh Muyideen Ajani Bello’s life was a testament to the transformative power of faith, education, and unwavering commitment to truth. His teachings, values, and example will continue to inspire generations, ensuring that his voice, though silenced in this world, will echo through time.

May Allah grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus and ease the pain of his family, students, and the entire Ummah.

‼️‼️‼️

Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2347035616202Email: thepeacemag@gmail.com

We represent Islamic advocacy and News Reporting. The primary objective is to use our platform to promote a better-informed society and the sanctity of the peaceful co-existence of man. It remains the flagship of Nigeria’s Islamic News magazines.
Kindly donate here;
PEACE MAGAZINE NIGERIA LIMITED,
TAJBank
0009931319

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED