By Ishola Balogun

How do we mourn a man whose life was a constant gift to others?
How do we put pen to paper when the ink itself trembles at the weight of grief of his death? Tears rolled down uncontrollably from men, women, young and old.

High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola — our leader, mentor, pathfinder, and beacon of cooperative excellence — has departed, and the world feels emptier. His death was a rude shock, a silence that thundered across Epe, Lagos, Nigeria, Africa, and among the global cooperative family.

Only a day before his passing, he was in his Lagos office, radiating kindness cheering cooperators. He gave compliments to the weary, succour to the vulnerable, inspire and motivate staff, friends, and associates. Even minutes before his last breath, he was seen attending to the needs of people, distributing gifts with the same selfless spirit that defined his life.

He was amiable, loveable, and endlessly generous — a man who carried the burdens of others with joy, who turned leadership into service, and who transformed service into legacy.

Now, we cry and mourn not just a leader, but a father of communities, a pillar of humanity, a voice of unity. His departure is not only the loss of a man, but the dimming of a light that guided countless souls.

We cry out in dirge, but we submit to Allah:
The Àrobayo of Epe Land has fallen.
The cooperative world has lost rare gem.
Nigeria has lost a son of honour.
Africa has lost a visionary leader.
The world has lost a servant of humanity.

High Chief Ayeola lived for others. He died serving others. And he will be remembered across generations as one who gave his all until the very end.

Sleep well, our leader.
Sleep well, our mentor.
Sleep well, our pathfinder.
Your legacy will never die.

May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, illuminate his grave, and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus. Amin.