By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Secretary to the Edo State Government, Barrister Umar Musa Ikhilor, delivered a poignant message to the Muslim community on Sunday, May 18, 2025, emphasizing the importance of good deeds in preparation for the afterlife.
He gave this advice during the burial ceremony of the late Chief Imam of South Ibie kingdom, Alhaji Ukashat Suleiman Okhimamhe, which took place at Iyakpi, South-Ibie, in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Addressing the thousands of mourners who gathered from across Edo State and beyond, Barrister Ikhilor noted, "fear Allah and look at the things that you have put forward for tomorrow."
He stressed that worldly possessions and status hold no significance in the face of death.
According to him, "Success is not about money. Success is not about family. Success is not about children. Success is not about position. Success is not about power,"
The SSG stated emphatically. "If you check, all these things I have mentioned, none of them have followed our Mallam to the grave. Success is all the good deeds that you do. Those good deeds will pay your way to the Hereafter."
The burial rites for the late Chief Imam, a respected figure in the South Ibie kingdom, a retired civil servant from the Edo State Ministry of Education, who served two terms as the Secretary of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board from 1999 to 2004 and again from 2008 to 2009, drew a large crowd that included Honourable Ganiyu Akohia, the law maker representing constituency 11 in the Edo State House of Assembly, as well as numerous Imams and members of the academic community.
The presence of such a diverse gathering underscored the profound impact and respect the late Chief Imam held within the state.
Barrister Ikhilor's message served as a powerful reminder to the attendees about the transient nature of earthly life and the enduring value of righteous actions in Islam. His words resonated deeply with the mourners, offering solace while urging them towards a life dedicated to good deeds in anticipation of the Hereafter.
