* MSSNLagos condoles with family, UNILAG, Muslim community
The family of deceased Muslim scholar and linguist, Professor Murtala Aderemi Bidmos has announced the launch of an endowment scheme established in honour of the distinguished Professor of Islamic Studies and former Chief Imam of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Muslim News had earlier reported that the revered scholar and icon of Islamic education returned to his Creator in the early hours of Monday, 3rd Ramadan 1446AH (3rd March 2025).
He was buried on the same day at his residence in Ayete, in Ibarapa North local government, Oyo State in accordance with Islamic rites.
The endowment scheme, which is in continuation of the noble legacy he upheld, is dedicated to supporting the less privileged, particularly indigent individuals striving for educational advancement.
“We firmly believe that this initiative will serve as Ṣadaqah Jāriyah (continuous charity) for our father and an extension of the values he passionately advocated throughout his life,” said Faisal, Prof Bidmos’ son, in a statement issued on Thursday, on behalf of the family.
“Details of the endowment scheme are; Unilag Muslim Community (Waqf). Reference: Professor Murtala Bidmos. Acct no: 0005741841 Bank JAIZ”, he noted.
While appreciating individuals and groups for their torrent of tributes and condolences to the late professor of Arabic Studies, the family also announced the cancellation of three days gathering of prayers for the dead, otherwise known as Fidau.
According to Faisal, “In adherence to the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and in fulfillment of the wishes of our late father, Professor Muritala Bidmos, the entire family of the late Imam wishes to inform the Muslim community that there will be no Fidau prayer or commemorative gathering in his honor.
“We sincerely request that all individuals and organizations respect this decision and see it as an act of ʿIbādah on behalf of our father.
“May Allah (SWT) accept his deeds, forgive his shortcomings, and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit (MSSN Lagos) has joined Muslim communities in the state to mourn the passing of Prof Bidmos.
In a condolence statement signed by the Amir of the society, Mallam Kamoldeen Abiona, MSSNLagos described Professor Bidmos as a towering figure in Islamic scholarship and education.
Abiona stated, “As a distinguished professor of Islamic Education and the brain behind the establishment of the Diploma in Mosque Leadership and Management at the University of Lagos’ Human Resource Development Centre, he played a pivotal role in shaping leadership in Islamic institutions,” he said.
Abiona added that his ascetic lifestyle and unwavering devotion to Islam were evident in his frequent commitment to nurturing generations of scholars and leaders.
He said, “As we grieve this immense loss, we find solace in the profound impact he made in the lives of many. We pray that Allah grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus and gives his family, the UNILAG Muslim community, and the entire Muslim Ummah the fortitude to bear this great loss.
“May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.”
Aamin