By KosofePost Reporter
Family members, politicians, friends, associates, supporters and well-wishers on Sunday gathered at Palm Roof Event Centre, Alakuko, Lagos, for the seventh-day Fidau prayer in honour of the late Alhaji Jimoh Aremu Durotoye.
Durotoye, who died at the age of 78, was remembered for his generosity, kindness, humility, religious devotion and commitment to his family. The gathering was held under tight security.
Speaking at the event, former Chairman of Odi-Olowo LCDA, Mr Olushola Ajala, described the deceased as a father figure who showed care and affection to everyone around him.
Ajala said Durotoye’s death was a great loss, particularly to his family and those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Son Remembers Him as Mentor and Role Model
In an emotional tribute, the deceased’s eldest son, Mr Akeem Durotoye, said his father’s death had left an emptiness that words could not adequately describe.
He described his father as more than a parent, calling him his mentor and a guiding figure whose lessons shaped his character and outlook on life.
Akeem recalled his father’s devotion to his wife and children, saying he admired the love and care he showed his mother.
“As a husband, you are a doting figure. I love the way you took care of our mum. You are so caring and genuinely very passionate about our mum. I love the way you love her. You should have given her more years of togetherness,” he said.
He also recalled the values his father instilled in him, including wisdom, humility, accountability, kindness, hard work and religious devotion.
According to him, his father often reminded him: “Never go late to any events. Never owe without repaying. Never owe the government. Never do shortcuts. Be hardworking. Be kind. Be religious.”
Akeem also recalled how his father once sold his television to provide money for one of his ICAN examinations, describing the sacrifice as an example of his commitment to his children’s education and ambitions.
He said his father supported his academic aspirations with his resources and stood firmly by the family through difficult periods.
He added that his father’s honesty, calmness and willingness to face challenges had left lasting lessons for the family.
Wife Recalls Years of Love and Companionship
The deceased’s wife, Alhaja Ganiyat Amoke Durotoye, described her husband as an industrious, selfless and humble man who loved God and cared deeply for his family.
In her tribute, she said he had been her companion, best friend and source of strength.
“You were more than a husband to me; you were my companion, my best friend, my source of strength, and a precious gift to my life,” she said.
She added that the memories they shared would remain with her despite the pain of losing him.
Alhaja Ganiyat prayed that Allah would forgive her husband’s shortcomings, show him mercy and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.
Family and Associates Celebrate His Legacy
Alhaja Olayinka Lekuti, in her tribute, said she never imagined that October 25, 2026, would mark the day of his passing, as she had hoped he would live to at least 100.
She, however, expressed gratitude to God for the years he spent on earth, describing his death as a painful loss that had left a deep void but also a lasting legacy.
Lekuti remembered his compassion, generosity and willingness to offer wise counsel, adding that he treated people with respect regardless of their age, status or background.
She also acknowledged his kindness towards their mother, Alhaja R. Abdul, saying the family appreciated his support.
Another family associate, Olaniyan Olushola, described Durotoye as a loving man and an incredible in-law whose warmth and kindness touched those around him.
He said the deceased would be remembered as family in every sense of the word and prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and admission into Jannatul Firdaus.
The deceased’s daughter-in-law, Alhaja Mrs Olusola Asisat Durotoye, wife of Akeem, also paid tribute, describing him as a father figure who filled the place left by her late father through his love, care and wisdom.
She recalled that he regularly called to check on her and ask after her wellbeing, often addressing her affectionately as “Olori Durotaye, karo iyawo mi, bawo ni? Se ko si problem o? Olori ebi ko o? Mo ni ki gboro alafia yin ni.”
She said those calls and expressions of concern would remain unforgettable, adding that his kindness helped build the Durotoye family on a foundation of love, peace and togetherness.
She prayed that Allah would forgive his shortcomings, grant him peace in Barzakh and admit him into Jannatul Firdaus.
A Life Remembered
According to the family, Durotoye met his wife in 1972, and their union produced four children: Akeem, Muftau, Lateef and Fatimah.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Tributes at the Fidau gathering reflected the family’s grief and the enduring memories of a man remembered by relatives, friends and associates for his generosity, guidance and commitment to those around him.