Sheikh Gbajabiamila Passes Away at LASUTH
Sheikh Imam Tijani Olubodun Shehu Gbajabiamila, the Olori Ratibi of Lagos, died on Saturday morning, July 18, 2026, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). His son, Ibikunle Lateef, confirmed the cleric's passing via a Facebook post on the same day. The late Sheikh was buried that afternoon at Iponri Central Mosque, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Who Was Sheikh Tijani Gbajabiamila?
Sheikh Gbajabiamila held the esteemed title of Olori Ratibi of Lagos, a prominent and highly respected Islamic leadership role in Yoruba traditional and religious administration. The Olori Ratibi oversees the activities of prayer leaders across mosques in the Lagos area. His passing marks a major loss for the Muslim community in Lagos, where he was regarded as a prominent spiritual figure.
Son Announces Death on Facebook
Ibikunle Lateef broke the news on his Facebook page on Saturday morning, July 18. In his post, he described the period as a "difficult time" for the family. The announcement quickly drew reactions from Nigerians on social media, with many paying tribute to the late cleric.
Nigerians React to Sheikh Gbajabiamila's Death
Adams Mutair Olawale wrote: "Baba was a remarkable Islamic scholar, a dedicated teacher, and a sincere caller to the path of Allah. His knowledge, wisdom, and service to the Ummah touched many lives, and his legacy will continue through the countless people he taught and inspired." He added a prayer: "May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his righteous deeds, widen and illuminate his grave, and grant him the highest ranks in Jannatul Firdaus."
Okunmoyinbo Mustapha Oluwayemisi commented: "May Allah be pleased with his soul and rank him among the righteous ones. Aamin."
Lagos Politician Mourns
Lagos politician, Prince Moshood Olawale Eletu, said in a statement shared online: "It is with profound sadness and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah that Hon. Prince Moshood Olawale Eletu mourns the passing of Sheikh Imam Tijani Olubodun Shehu Gbajabiamila, the revered Olori Ratibi of Lagos." Eletu added via Facebook: "I pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives his shortcomings, accepts his righteous deeds, widens and illuminates his grave, and grants him Al-Jannatul Firdaus. May Allah also grant his family, friends, and loved ones the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear this great loss."
Burial at Iponri Central Mosque
The late Sheikh was buried on Saturday afternoon, July 18, at Iponri Central Mosque, in line with Islamic burial customs. Family, followers, and members of the Muslim community attended the funeral prayers.
Legacy of the Olori Ratibi
Sheikh Gbajabiamila was widely recognized for his dedication to Islamic scholarship and his role in guiding the Muslim community in Lagos. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Nigeria.
