COMPASSION BEYOND TIMING: PROF. ALI AHMAD EXTENDS CONDOLENCES TO TWO BEREAVED FAMILIES UPON RETURN TO TOWN
Despite the passage of time since the demise of Mrs. Sikirat Abdulrahman and the recent passing of the mother of Alhaja Afusat Abubakar, Prof. Ali Ahmad considered it a moral obligation to personally visit both bereaved families immediately upon his return to town, having been unavoidably away throughout the period.
In keeping with his enduring values of compassion, empathy, and solidarity, Prof. Ali Ahmad paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the Oke-Apomu residence of Hon. Abdulrafiu Abdulrahman to commiserate with him and his family over the loss of his beloved wife, the late Mrs. Sikirat Abdulrahman. He also used the opportunity to extend his heartfelt condolences to Alhaja Afusat Abubakar over the passing of her beloved mother, praying for Allah’s infinite mercy upon the deceased.
The visit underscored Prof. Ali Ahmad’s firm belief that sincere condolences are not measured by how soon they are offered but by the genuine concern, compassion, and commitment behind them. His decision to make the visit immediately after returning to town reflected the deep respect he holds for the bereaved families and his unwavering tradition of standing with friends, associates, and members of the community in their moments of grief.
Speaking during the visit, Prof. Ali Ahmad urged Hon. Abdulrafiu Abdulrahman, Alhaja Afusat Abubakar, and members of both bereaved families to remain steadfast in faith and take solace in the decree of Almighty Allah.
“The loss of a loved one—whether a spouse or a parent—is among the greatest trials of life. Yet, as believers, we find comfort in the certainty that every soul shall taste death and that Allah alone gives and takes life. I pray that Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgives the shortcomings of the late Mrs. Sikirat Abdulrahman and the late mother of Alhaja Afusat Abubakar, illuminate and expand their graves, grant them Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and bless both families with the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear these painful losses. May He continue to comfort you all and reward your steadfastness.”
Prof. Ali Ahmad also seized the opportunity to appeal to all leaders, stakeholders, supporters, and tendencies within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to put aside their differences and embrace reconciliation in the overall interest of the party. He emphasized that the party’s strength lies in its unity and collective resolve, urging everyone to close ranks, strengthen internal cohesion, and work together with a shared sense of purpose ahead of future political engagements.
According to him, sustainable progress can only be achieved when personal interests are subordinated to the collective aspiration of the party, adding that unity, mutual respect, and inclusiveness remain the surest path to building a stronger and more formidable platform capable of earning and sustaining the confidence of the people.
Responding on behalf of the family, Hon. Abdulrafiu Abdulrahman expressed profound appreciation to Prof. Ali Ahmad, describing the visit as a touching demonstration of sincere brotherhood, exceptional leadership, and genuine compassion.
“Our families are deeply honoured that, despite your unavoidable absence from town, you made it a priority to personally visit us immediately upon your return. Your presence, prayers, your fatherly counsel, and your words of encouragement have brought renewed comfort to us. We sincerely appreciate this remarkable gesture of love and solidarity. We are equally grateful for your timely appeal for unity within our great party, as such counsel is essential to strengthening our collective resolve. May Almighty Allah reward your kindness abundantly, preserve you in good health, and continue to elevate you in honour and service to humanity.”
The bereaved families also appreciated everyone who accompanied Prof. Ali Ahmad on the visit, as well as all those who have continued to stand by them with prayers, encouragement, and acts of kindness during their moments of grief.
Signed:
Sa’ad Ayinde
Media Assistant to Prof. Ali Ahmad, Former Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly