Photo: Late Princess (Alhaja) Rafatu Ademinure Awofisayo, the Iya Adinni of Ifeland

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), under the leadership of its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and the Executive Secretary, Prof. Wole Abbas, has expressesed profound gratitude to Allah for the long and impactful life of Princess (Alhaja) Rafatu Ademinure Awofisayo, the Iya Adinni of Ifeland, who has returned to her Creator at the age of 102.

In a statement jointly signed by the duo, MUSWEN said “Mama’s passing marks the end of a glorious era. As a centenarian, last surviving child of last surviving child of 48th Alayeluwa Ademiluyi Ajagun and Iya Adinni of Ifeland, she was a beacon of faith, resilience, and service to the Ummah.

“Her title as the Iya Adinni of Ifeland was not merely honorary; it was a testament to her lifelong commitment to the propagation of Islam and the development of the Muslim community in the ancient city of Ile-Ife and across the South West region.

“Until her passing, she served as the Matron of the Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), Ife Central Mosque, where she was a pillar of wisdom, guidance, and service.

“MUSWEN recognizes her immense contributions to Islamic education and her role in fostering religious harmony within her community. Her life served as a bridge between tradition and faith, demonstrating how royalty and religious devotion can coexist to uplift society.”

MUSWEN added that “Princess Awofisayo was a pillar of strength whose wisdom guided many. Her death is a loss to the entire Nigerian Muslim Ummah, but we take solace in the fact that she lived a life entirely dedicated to the service of Allah and humanity.

“The leadership of MUSWEN extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, the Ooni of Ife, the Muslim community of Ifeland, and the government and people of Osun State.

“We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants her Al-Jannah Firdaus and gives her family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”