Supreme Shari’ah council’s president, Sheikh Hadiyatullah, is dead

The President of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN), Sheikh Abdul Rasheed Hadiyatullah, has passed on, marking a solemn moment for the country’s Islamic community.

His death was confirmed in a statement issued late Monday night by Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, the Grand Mufti of Yorubaland.

Although the exact details of his passing were not disclosed, Molaasan described Sheikh Hadiyatullah’s demise as a great loss and a significant void in the leadership of Islam in Nigeria.

Sheikh Hadiyatullah was widely respected for his scholarship, spiritual guidance, and contributions to Islamic governance in Nigeria.

“He was born in Iwo, a prominent town in Osun State known for its deep Islamic heritage. Sheikh Hadiyatullah was a widely respected Islamic scholar and jurist, known for his tireless advocacy for the implementation of Shari’ah law within constitutional frameworks, interfaith dialogue, and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities.

“He served as the President of the SCSN for several years, guiding the council through times of both societal challenge and growth.

“Sheikh Hadiyatullah received his early Islamic education under local scholars before advancing his studies abroad. He earned respect across Nigeria and beyond for his profound knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence and his calm, principled leadership style,” Molaasan said.

He also prayed Allah to forgive Sheikh Hadiyatullah and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.