A throwback video of the late Lagos NURTW Organising Secretary, Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Toba Ijaya, has gone viral following his death, reigniting conversations about his generosity and kindness. In the footage, Toba Ijaya is seen hosting a Sallah celebration where members of the Hausa community openly praised him for ensuring that vulnerable attendees were not left out.
Throwback Video Resurfaces Amid Mourning
The video, which was recorded during a previous Sallah party, shows Toba Ijaya distributing food and gifts to the needy, with the Hausa community publicly acknowledging his support. The display of gratitude highlighted how deeply his generosity was felt, particularly during a season when giving and care for the less privileged carries special cultural and religious significance.
Following his burial in Ketu, Lagos, the video began circulating on social media, prompting an outpouring of reflections from viewers who were moved by what they saw. Many Nigerians took to platforms like Facebook and Instagram to comment on the late official's character.
Hausa Community Praises Toba Ijaya's Generosity
In the video, members of the Hausa community can be heard singing praises for Toba Ijaya, thanking him for including them in the celebration. One individual exclaimed, "He has a good heart, may God forgive his shortcomings", while another wrote, "Honestly I feel for this man for his compassion towards the people in the hood."
The resurfaced footage stands in contrast to the violent circumstances of his death. Toba Ijaya was reportedly shot on a Sunday evening in the Fadeyi area of Lagos while departing after visiting childhood friends. Unidentified gunmen opened fire on his vehicle, and despite being rushed to hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. Three other passengers were also wounded.
Nigerians React to Acts of Kindness
The video prompted a wave of emotional responses. User BAKARE commented, "People will surely feel for him likewise opposite too... May the good Lord forgive us all our sins." Another user, ollyshow12, noted, "Live today as if there is no tomorrow, do good so that people will remember your good deed."
AYOOLA shared, "No one is perfect; he seems like a good person. May his soul rest in peace." Certified Eazi added, "Painful part, those that feed from him cannot feed there anymore." The comment _das142 observed, "People don't keep the good record you do, they only keep the bad records you've done in the past... That's just life."
Details of the Tragic Killing
The Lagos State Police Command launched a manhunt for the attackers, with spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi confirming that investigations had begun. Photos of Toba Ijaya's bullet-riddled vehicle spread rapidly across social media, drawing widespread shock.
Earlier reports indicated that a man named Oke, a bricklayer in Fadeyi, was allegedly involved in betraying Toba Ijaya by monitoring his movements and tipping off the attackers. The betrayal added to the public grief and outrage over the ambush.
As the throwback Sallah party video continues to circulate, many reflect on the duality of Toba Ijaya's life—remembered for his charity and compassion despite the tragic end. The video serves as a testament to the impact he had on his community, particularly among the Hausa residents of Lagos.
