Family, Islamic leaders and associates set to gather for 8th Fidau prayer on Sunday as tributes continue to celebrate the late Alhaja Aishat Amoke Abdul-Lateef Egunlusi’s contributions to Islam, community development and humanity.
As family members, Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, political leaders and members of the Muslim community prepare to observe the eighth-day Fidau prayer for the late Alhaja Aishat Amoke Abdul-Lateef Egunlusi, fondly known as the Iya Sunna of Ekiti State, tributes have continued to celebrate a life devoted to faith, selfless service and humanity.
The Fidau prayer is scheduled to hold on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at her residence in Ereguru Quarters, Ado-Ekiti, where hundreds of sympathisers are expected to gather to honour the memory of the respected Islamic leader and pray for the peaceful repose of her soul.
For many within and outside Ekiti State, Alhaja Egunlusi represented the ideals of humility, integrity, compassion and unwavering devotion to Allah. Throughout her lifetime, she remained a strong pillar of the Muslim community, dedicating herself to religious propagation, women’s development and humanitarian service.
Born in 1941 into the prominent Bello family of Ado-Ekiti, she was the daughter of the late Alhaji Bello Olaseinde of the Eminiwa Ruling House and the late Alhaja Sabitiu Olaseinde of the respected Odo Uro family in Aisegba-Ekiti. From an early age, she displayed exceptional discipline, honesty and a passion for learning, qualities that later defined her public and private life.
Her quest for Islamic knowledge began in the early 1950s at Alhaji Akingbade Arabic and Islamic Studies Centre before she proceeded to Ansar-Ud-Deen Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, between 1955 and 1961. She later underwent advanced Arabic and Islamic studies under the renowned scholar, the late Alhaji Isiaq Asogbon, strengthening her commitment to Islamic teachings and community service.
Aside from her religious pursuits, Alhaja Egunlusi distinguished herself as a successful entrepreneur. Encouraged by her father, she ventured into business at a young age, beginning with the sale of foodstuffs before expanding into head-weaving and later the provisions trade. Through hard work, honesty and determination, she built a thriving business that became a household name in Ereguru Quarters and beyond.
She was married to Alhaji Abdul-Lateef Egunlusi of the Adesemo Family, Iworoko-Ekiti, and was blessed with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family members described her as a devoted wife, caring mother and dependable mentor whose values of faith, discipline and hard work continue to inspire succeeding generations.
Her spiritual journey reached another significant milestone in 1986 when she performed the holy pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah. Thereafter, she became widely known as Alhaja Aishat Amoke, a title that reflected her steadfast devotion to Islam.
Throughout her lifetime, she played active leadership roles in several Islamic organisations. She was a foundation member of Alhaji Akingbade Arabic and Islamic School and served as a prominent member of Egbe Alasalatu, Ereguru Ratibi Mosque, Ado-Ekiti. She was also Matron of Egbe Alhajas, Central Mosque, Ado-Ekiti; Matron of the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), Ado-Ekiti Branch; and Matron of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Ado-Ekiti.
Her immense contributions to Islamic propagation and community development earned her the prestigious title of Iya Sunna of Ado-Ekiti, a recognition that was later elevated to Iya Sunna of Ekiti State. In that revered position, she became a mother figure to thousands of Muslims, providing guidance, encouragement and moral leadership to women, youths and families across the state.
Beyond titles and honours, Alhaja Egunlusi was widely admired for her generosity, hospitality and commitment to peace. Her home remained a place of comfort and counsel, while her charitable disposition and unwavering support for the less privileged endeared her to many.
Although her passing marked the end of a remarkable era, those who knew her believe her legacy will continue to endure through the countless lives she touched, the family she nurtured and the values she upheld.
The family described her as “a woman whose life was a testament to unwavering faith, unconditional love and selfless service to humanity,” adding that her memory would continue to inspire generations of Muslims and community leaders.
As preparations continue for Sunday’s Fidau prayer, the family has expressed appreciation to individuals, religious organisations, community leaders and well-wishers for their prayers, condolences and support since her passing.
They urged members of the public to join them in praying that Almighty Allah forgives her shortcomings, accepts her righteous deeds and grants her eternal abode in Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
Indeed, while Alhaja Aishat Amoke Abdul-Lateef Egunlusi may have departed this world, the enduring legacy of the woman fondly remembered as the Iya Sunna of Ekiti State remains firmly etched in the hearts of all whose lives she touched.
