As we gather for Jumu’ah on this blessed 1st of Shawwal at Aikulola Aibinuomo Central Mosque, Olodo, this is not just another prayer.
As we gather for Jumu’ah on this blessed 1st of Shawwal at Aikulola Aibinuomo Central Mosque, Olodo, this is not just another prayer. It is a moment written in tears, in faith, and in destiny. It comes just days after my investiture as Baba Adinni of Olodo Land on March 14, 2026, a journey I now see as part of a greater purpose ordained by Allah.
Today’s Jumu’ah is the fulfillment of a dream that has lived quietly in my heart for many years.
A dream born from pain.
Many years ago, my beloved mother, Madam Raliatu Apeke Aibinu, sustained a fatal injury on her way to Jumu’ah prayer. We believe that death comes at its appointed time, but that Friday changed everything for us. From that moment, things began to fall apart until she returned to her Creator months later.
That pain never left me. It only turned into a silent resolve.
I made a promise within myself that one day, no trader, no artisan, no hardworking soul in this market would have to choose between protecting their goods and answering the call of Allah.
My mother, the Idowu family, especially Iya Idowu Elewa, and Linus, also known as Lai Elemu, the palm wine seller, were among the humble pillars of what is now Olodo Garage Market. I remember those early days vividly. The market was quiet. There were Sundays when I stood alone, selling, sometimes with my sister beside me. Today, that same place is full of life.
I also remember the Aibinuomo women who held their ground in those days. Iya Muji Oniresi, Iya Kafayat Eleja, Iya Baki Alamala, and others whose presence helped shape what we see today.
Alhamdulillah.
Today, the Adhan will be called.
The Iqamah will be raised.
And for the first time, Jumu’ah prayer will be established in Olodo Garage.
Seventeen years of hope.
Seventeen years of waiting.
Seventeen years of a promise carried in the heart.
This moment is not mine alone.
It belongs to my mother.
It belongs to the pioneers of this market.
It belongs to my father, who gave a portion of his land for this mosque.
It belongs to everyone who contributed, prayed, and believed that this day would come.
It belongs to the Aikulola-Aibinuomo family across the world.
I wanted to say all of this during my inaugural speech, but I could not. The words were too heavy, and my heart even heavier. I tried more than once, but I held back because I knew I would not be able to say it without tears.
As a Mogaji, and in our Yoruba tradition, a man is not expected to show weakness. Mi o gbodo ba okunrin je. So I kept it all inside.
But today, I can no longer keep silent.
Today, I speak with a full heart.
Join us as we witness history.
🕌 Jumu’ah Prayer
🕜 Time: 1:00 to 1:30 PM
📅 Date: Friday, March 20, 2026
📍 Venue: Aikulola Aibinuomo Central Mosque, Olodo Garage, Ibadan
May Allah accept this as an act of worship, a service to humanity, and a lasting legacy.