Arisekola, who was the Deputy President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs died on Wednesday at the age of 69.
The minister said in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Wale Akinola, that the deceased was very successful in the area of business, politics and religion, adding that his philanthropic gestures would be greatly missed not only by his immediate family but by the entire citizenry of the country, especially the people of Ibadan, his home town.
“I received the news of the death of the Are Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Abdul Azeez Arisekola Alao, with a rude shock, especially now that his kind gesture is mostly needed as the holy month of Ramadan is fast approaching.
“Alhaji Arisekola lived an exemplary life that is worthy of emulation. He contributed his own quota to the development of the nation through his business, especially with the establishment of the defunct Monitor newspaper. He also made huge impact in ensuring religious tolerance in the South- west zone of the country as the Are Musulumi of Yoruba land.
“I want to use this medium to call on all the citizens of the country to emulate his simplicity, calmness and Godliness so that we can live in peace, harmony and tranquility.
“I pray Almighty Allah to forgive him his shortcomings and grant him Aljanat Fridaos. I also pray Allaah to give his immediate family’s the entire country the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. May his soul rest in peace.”
