By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The family of the late Alhaji Isah Maliki Ndambabo on Sunday held an 8-day Fidau prayer in his honour at Cantonment Street, Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
The solemn event, led by the Chief Imam of Lokoja, Sheikh Muhammad Aminu Sha’aban, brought together family members, friends, Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, politicians, and well-wishers who gathered to pray for the repose of the soul of the deceased.
The Fidau prayer, a major Islamic rite marking the eighth day after death, was observed with deep reflection, Qur’anic recitations, and emotional tributes.
Late Alhaji Isah Maliki Ndambabo, aged 92, passed away recently after a prolonged illness.
He was a revered Islamic scholar, teacher, and community leader who devoted his life to the service of Allah and the moral development of the Lokoja community.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam described the late Alhaji Ndambabo as a pious Muslim, a man of integrity, and a selfless community leader who lived a life dedicated to faith and humanity.
He urged the congregation to emulate his virtues of humility, patience, and service to others.
Other clerics, including Sheikh Ibrahim Zakari and Alifa Arif Yabagi, delivered sermons emphasizing the transient nature of life and the importance of good deeds.
They prayed that Almighty Allah forgive the shortcomings of the deceased and grant him eternal rest in Aljanah Firdaus.
The event also featured recitations from the Holy Qur’an by Islamic scholars and students, seeking divine mercy for the late Alhaji Ndambabo and blessings for his family.
Among the dignitaries who attended were the Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji (Dr.) Muhammadu Kabir Maikarfi III; River State Comptroller of Immigration, River State, Abdulmajid Yabagi and a host of others.
Also in attendance were Hon. Tijjani Shehu Bin Ebaiya, member representing Lokoja I Constituency; Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters; and several traditional leaders, clerics, and politicians from across Lokoja Emirate.
Speaking at the event, the Maigari of Lokoja, who was represented by, the Waziri of Lokoja, Abdurahaman Idris, described the late Alhaji Ndambabo as a humble and dedicated teacher whose contributions to Islamic knowledge and community development would be remembered for generations.
He said, “Alhaji Ndambabo was a teacher to many and a man of peace. His wisdom and humility touched countless lives in Lokoja. We have lost one of our finest elders.”
On his part, Engr. Yahaya Faruq said the late Alhaji Ndambabo lived an exemplary life filled with sacrifice and faith.
He noted that “his life was a testament to the power of service and knowledge, and his legacy will continue to guide our community.”
Similarly, Abdulmajid Yabagi and Alhaji Musa Sulaiman both extended their condolences to the family, describing the deceased as a man who devoted his entire life to fostering peace, education, and moral values in Lokoja and beyond.
Members of the Ndambabo family, represented by Hon. Sulaiman Babanda, expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the Fidau, appreciating their prayers, love, and support during their time of grief.
They prayed that Almighty Allah reward all who honoured their late father and grandfather.
Until his death, Alhaji Isah Maliki Ndambabo was known for his scholarship, generosity, and mentorship to young Muslims across Lokoja.
His passing at the age of 92, after a prolonged illness, has been described as a great loss not only to his family but to the entire Muslim community in Kogi State.
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