By Itan Ayobami
I’m not a fan of writing dirges or elegies after the passing of great individuals, primarily because I wouldn’t want anyone to write one for me or clutter my grave with needless flowers. Such actions often reflect an unapologetic hypocrisy within humanity. People will shower you with accolades when you’re no longer here, yet, where were they when you needed them most?
This evening, out of sincere concern, I reached out to inquire about Hon. Bukoye Marooph Bintinlaye’s whereabouts, and the information I received shocked me. Only to hear a more shocking story few minutes ago that he passed away tonight.
Hon. Bintinlaye was a well-known figure in Kwara South and across Kwara State, particularly for his deep and genuine concern for the less privileged. I first learned about his character through a friend of mine, the Publisher/Editor of the News Bulletin, Jimoh Taofik Adekunle-Balogun who had served as his Media Aide prior to the 2023 General Elections.
What strikes me as truly heartbreaking is how a man, once regarded as a messiah for the poor and a husband to the widows, someone who selflessly catered to their needs, was no where in public space for several months without anyone knowing or asking. This begs the question—who truly cares for us in our times of need? It’s a sad reality.
It is easy to be praised and loved by the masses when your pockets are full, but true love from the people is evident during times of hardship. I am left to wonder if those he dedicated his life to ever truly inquired about his well-being, apart from his immediate family.
May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljanah Firdaus. Ameen.
Life is fleeting, built on the soil of impermanence.
Offa and Kwara South have lost one of their most promising son.
~ Ìtàn Ayòbámi
