Our revered father, teacher, and mentor, Alhaji Lasisi Ayinla Kolawole Jimoh, affectionately known as L.A.K. Jimoh, is a man of many facets. He effortlessly connects with people and events across generations, drawing from his rich experiences and transmitting valuable knowledge to the youth of today, shaping a brighter future for all
By Prof. Jawondo A. Ibrahim
Courtesies
When I received the invitation to share insights about Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh, I recall the whirlwind of emotions that flooded my mind. As his child, I felt a moral dilemma – how could I, attempt to narrate the life story of my father? The weight of his accomplishments and the breadth of his influence leaves me to questioning my capability to do justice to his remarkable journey. As his son, will this presentation not bring in the Yoruba insinuation which says; ‘Ta ni esisin ko ba gbe bi ki ba se elegbo’
Furthermore, I also grappled with the daunting prospect of presenting my thoughts with Alhaji himself in attendance, a man who has mastered the art of history and politics, both in theory and practice. Thus, this assignment akin to the Yoruba proverb, ‘Oba rani ni ise, Odo Obaa kun. Ise Oba Ko se ma je, Odo Obaa ko se rolu.’
However, I later drew strength from the realization that such trepidation might be the very reason why the stories of our great heroes and heroines remain unwritten, relegated to the realm of oral tradition alone. Thus, I humbly submit that what follows is not a comprehensive biography, but rather a reflection of the widely acknowledged attributes of Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh, a man whose tremendous impact on our lives is undeniable. Thank God, the presentation is on his ideals.
Our revered father, teacher, and mentor, Alhaji Lasisi Ayinla Kolawole Jimoh, affectionately known as L.A.K. Jimoh, is a man of many facets. He effortlessly connects with people and events across generations, drawing from his rich experiences and transmitting valuable knowledge to the youth of today, shaping a brighter future for all.
A connoisseur of Nigerian cultures, he masterfully navigates the nuances of Eastern, Western, and Northern traditions, making him a sought-after voice on national issues 🇳🇬. As a seasoned political scientist, politician, historian, and community leader, Alhaji’s expertise is unparalleled. He kept on updating his knowledge on local, national and international issues, thus, his contributions are not only superb but genuine.
A veritable repository of knowledge, Alhaji is a humble listener who values others’ opinions. He often allows others to speak first, preferring to share his insights last, fostering inclusive discussions.
His remarkable career spans public service, corporate roles, and business management, with a fascinating trajectory that inspires. His community service began with student leadership, progressing to social clubs, Ilorin umbrella union, and eventually, state and national leadership roles.
His simplicity and humility are legendary, yet he is fearless in speaking truth to power, Alhaji’s experiences in vibrant cities like Onitsha, Port Harcourt, and Lagos have honed his skills as a captivating public speaker. His time in journalism has made him a meticulous researcher, reporter, writer, and analyst, culminating in authorship.
Alhaji embodies humanism, relating with humility and empathy to people from all walks of life – the elderly and the young, the affluent and the marginalized, the learned and the artisans. He cherishes connections, accepts invitations with gratitude, and shuns ostentation, living a life of quiet dignity.
Alhaji exemplifies a profound respect for all individuals, regardless of their status in the society. He treats each person with dignity and deference, whether they are a ruler or a subject, rich or poor, lettered or unlettered, young or elderly. His remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life is a testament to his extraordinary character. I am always amazed by Alhaji’s remarkable and unwavering commitment to showing respect, even to those who are significantly younger or of a different social standing. I have witnessed him address individuals who are decades his junior including children and including my humble self with the utmost respect, using titles such as ‘Yes Sir’ and ‘Yes Ma’ with sincerity and conviction. This humility is a rare quality and it speaks volumes about his exceptional nature.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh’s approach to human relationships is a masterclass in empathy, compassion, and kindness. His example challenges us to reexamine our own attitudes towards others, to recognize the inherent value and worth of every individual, and to treat all people with the respect and dignity they deserve. As a beacon of humanity, Alhaji Jimoh inspires us to cultivate a culture of respect, tolerance, and understanding, and to strive for a world where every person is valued and cherished.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh is a passionate advocate for culture and a respecter of royalty in all its forms. He embodies elegance, preferring a life of simplicity, freedom, and quiet dignity.
As a counselor, Alhaji offers sincere guidance, empowering individuals to realize their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
As an estate worker in the state, Alhaji wise consel to his community was to invest in land to securing the future of the unborn. His true focus, however, remained the growth and development of his community.
Alhaji treasures time with loved ones, prioritizing family and friendships. Despite opportunities to move, he chose to remain in the family house at Mansankore (Manza Kwarai), a testament to his commitment to the root and community.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh is a consummate politician with a clear vision and purpose. His approach to politics is rooted in a deep commitment to development, dignity, and openness, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and respected. He engages with people across various divides, listening attentively to their concerns and aspirations, and consistently delivers on his promises, earning him widespread admiration and trust.
Alhaji’s political acumen and ability to build bridges have enabled his networks to flourish, transcending ideological and partisan boundaries. Though his political ideology may differ from others both within and outside of his party, he navigates these differences with tact and respect, refusing to make temporary or permanent enemies or burn bridges. This approach has allowed him to maintain strong relationships with politicians and citizens alike, even in the face of disagreement.
His leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, empathy, and a genuine interest in the welfare of others. Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh’s commitment to purposeful politics has earned him a reputation as a unifying force, capable of bringing people together to achieve common goals and drive progress. As a result, his influence extends far beyond his immediate circle, inspiring a new generation of leaders to prioritize people-centric politics.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh is an embodiment of honesty and the epitome of trustworthiness. As the trusted spokesperson and bridge between the people and the late General Muhammed Abdullahi Adangba (May Allah be pleased with him), he consistently demonstrated unwavering integrity, never betraying the trust reposed in him. He wielded his position with utmost responsibility, ensuring that every message reached its intended destination and was conveyed to the right people.
From his vantage position, Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh has been a catalyst for positive change, facilitating employment opportunities for countless individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, the underemployed, and the unemployed, doing so with characteristic humility and quiet efficiency. His selfless efforts have made a tangible impact on the lives of many, cementing his reputation as a champion of human development.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh’s commitment to serving others is a testament to his exceptional character and generosity of spirit. He exemplifies the values of compassion, kindness, and integrity, inspiring others to emulate his example. Indeed, he is a great human development capitalist, whose contributions to society will be remembered for generations to come.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh is not merely a father and mentor, but a revered teacher who has nurtured a generation of distinguished scholars, including numerous contemporary professors. His transformative impact extends far beyond his seminal work, ‘Ilorin: The Journey So Far,’ and other enlightening public lectures, which continue to inspire and educate. Many have benefited from his generosity in sharing his vast knowledge, granting unrestricted access to his personal library, a treasure trove of wisdom. Yet, it is his dedication to one-on-one teaching, his willingness to engage in in-depth interviews, and his selfless surrender of time that have made him an unforgettable mentor to many.
As one of the fortunate recipients of his guidance, I can attest to the profound influence he has had on my life. His teachings, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to educational development have been a constant source of inspiration, shaping my personality and informing my worldview. The impact of his contributions to my growth and development cannot be overstated.
I am honored to acknowledge the indelible mark Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh has left on my life, and I pray that Allah, in His infinite mercy, will reward his tireless efforts in advancing humanity, granting him abundance and fulfillment in all his endeavors. May his legacy as a beacon of knowledge, wisdom, and guidance continue to illuminate the path of countless individuals, amin.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh is a true luminary, a golden fish who shines brightly in the ocean of humanity. One of his most endearing qualities is his unwavering commitment to acknowledging and appreciating those who have contributed to his growth and development. His reverence for mentors, teachers, and role models transcends boundaries, embracing individuals from diverse religious, communal, and tribal backgrounds.
Through conversations with Alhaji, I have gained insight into the lives of remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on his life. He speaks with profound respect and gratitude about Mr. Abegunde, a prince of Omu-Aran royalty, who served as a former Principal of Government Secondary School, Ilorin, and was deputized by one of our own fathers, the late Alhaji Saka Saadu. Alhaji LAK Jimoh also fondly recalls Alhaji Musa Etudaiye, an Ebira man, among others, who have played significant roles in shaping his life and worldview. I should not also forget his mention of the members of Trustees of the United Primary School, Ilorin.
Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh’s ecumenical approach to recognizing and honoring those who have influenced him is a testament to his exceptional character. His ability to bridge cultural and communal divides, acknowledging the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds, is a beacon of hope for a more harmonious and inclusive society. As he continues to shine his light, may his example inspire others to cultivate gratitude, humility, and a deep appreciation for the wisdom and guidance of others.
My journey through Islamic History has been a profound exploration of the human experience, revealing the intricacies of spiritual ecstasy that have defined the lives of the Prophets and saints. This odyssey also led me to delve into the lives of Ilorin ulama who embodied the principles of spiritual detachment, their examples illuminating the path to a life of devotion and service. It is in this context that I reflect on the remarkable life of Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh, a man who, without proclaiming it, exemplifies the virtues of those illustrious predecessors.
Alhaji Jimoh’s unassuming nature, his love for simplicity, and his preference for quiet contemplation are testaments to his profound inner strength. He speaks truth to power, unflinchingly, yet with compassion and kindness. His practice of open love, his aversion to sycophancy, and his willingness to absorb injustice rather than inflict it upon others are hallmarks of a truly noble soul. I have always known him to be a man of unwavering integrity, who values humility and prefers to be cheated rather than be the perpetrator of deceit.
As I reflect on Alhaji Jimoh’s life, I am struck by the congruence between his words and actions. He is a beacon of hope in a world often beset by cynicism and moral ambiguity. His example inspires me to strive for greater self-awareness, to cultivate compassion, and to embody the values he so effortlessly exemplifies. May his type increase, and may his legacy continue to illuminate the path to spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Conclusion
Distinguished guests, permit me to draw your attention to the underlying foundation of the occasion we are commemorating today. It is undeniable that the values and principles that have shaped Alhaji L.A.K. Jimoh’s remarkable personality are deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam. Our beloved faith emphasizes the importance of family, community, and individual responsibilities, providing a blueprint for building character and fostering a sense of purpose. Our forebears, who were devout Muslims, adhered to these principles with unwavering dedication, and Alhaji Jimoh is a shining example of their legacy. He is, indeed, a product of the values instilled in him by his predecessors, and an ambassador of their enduring influence. May Allah be pleased with our ancestors, and may their noble deeds continue to inspire us.
As we celebrate Alhaji Jimoh’s life and achievements, we also acknowledge the significance of the role models who have shaped him. May Allah grant him a long and peaceful life, filled with joy, wisdom, and continued service to humanity. And may we, too, draw strength from his example, striving to emulate the values oif compassion, integrity, and devotion that have defined his remarkable journey.
May the peace, blessings, and mercy of Allah be upon us all. Wa salamu alekun waramatullahi wabarakatu.
Jawondo Ibrahim AbdulGaniyu, Fspsp, fcyen, Dean, Faculty of Atrs, Former; Head of History and International Studies, Director, Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, Director, Centre for Ilorin Studies, University of Ilorin
Fellow: Centre for Research and Documentation, CRD, Kano
International Institute for Islamic Thoughts, IIIT
American Council of Learned Societies, ACLS
Centre for Economic and Environmental Control, CEEC, China
Senior Academic Leadership Training, SALT, Ghana, Legon
jawondoi@unilorin.edu.ng, jawondoi@yahoo.com
+234(0)8035015242
