Abeokuta, Ogun State, came alive on Sunday, December 14, 2025, as Sheikh Zakariyah Idris Imodola, fondly known as Sheikh Kandayasu, led a remarkable twin celebration that blended faith, thanksgiving and community development.
The event, held at Arokoje area, Obantoko, witnessed the Maulud Nabiyy celebration marking the birthday of Prophet Muhammad alongside the official foundation laying for a new mosque in the community.
The colourful gathering was organised by the JAMHIYATUL FATIHATUL KHARAAT group, founded about fifteen years ago by the revered cleric. Addressing a large congregation of Islamic scholars, community leaders and well-wishers, Sheikh Imodola expressed deep gratitude to Allah for sustaining the group over the years and guiding it to a moment he described as divinely appointed.
According to him, God owns time and seasons, stressing that the decision to commence the mosque project was not by human effort but divine timing. He explained that the invitation extended to guests was a reflection that the moment ordained by Allah had arrived, adding that every step taken by the group was rooted in sincere service to God.
Speaking further, the Islamic scholar reflected on the essence of Maulud Nabiyy, noting that while many celebrate the Prophet’s birthday, true servants of God are distinguished by sincerity and sacrifice. He emphasised that the reward for those who work for God differs greatly from those who pursue personal gains, stating that all the activities of the group were carried out for God alone and not for money.
Sheikh Imodola also cautioned against religious showmanship, noting that some people use religion to project status and lifestyle rather than genuine devotion. He revealed future plans aimed at strengthening Islamic values, particularly the establishment of a Quranic learning centre where children would be properly guided to prevent moral deviation.
Special guest at the event, Chief Joju Fadairo, congratulated the hosts on the twin celebration and the mosque project. In a message that resonated strongly with attendees, he stressed that there should be no division between Islam and Christianity, describing adherents of both faiths as children of the same parents who must coexist in unity and love.
Chief Fadairo added that religious crisis is alien to Yorubaland due to deep family ties across faiths, noting that it is common to find Muslims and Christians within the same family. He prayed for the successful completion of the mosque in peace and joy, pledging to personally return to pray with the congregation once the project is completed.
Also speaking, Alhaji Mutiu Afod thanked God and Sheikh Kandayasu for the Maulud Nabiyy celebration and the fifteenth anniversary of the group. He described Sheikh Imodola as a man whose goodness and leadership speak naturally without noise or self-praise, noting that since his arrival in Abeokuta, God has favoured him and endeared him to the people through generosity and compassion.
The event attracted notable personalities, including Alhaji Sheikh Lukman, Alhaji Olowoshile, Imam Tejumola, Alhaji Lukman Booseere, Imam Ibrahim Balogun, Imam Yusuf, Imam Ibrahim CBN, and Mr Kehinde, Deputy Comptroller of Immigration, among others, who joined the community in celebrating a day marked by faith, unity and hope for the future.
By Folake Sokoya
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