Members of the Islamic Musicians Association of Nigeria (ISMAN) are still in pensive mood, following the death of their former president, Alhaji Abdul-Waheed Ariyo, who died of a heart- related disease last Friday.
In attendance at his burial at his Otta, Ogun State residence on Friday were the current ISMAN President, Alhaji Abdul-Wasi’i Kayode As-Sideeq, Alhaja Basirat Ogunremi Iyan-Ghana, her husband, Idowu Ogunremi Olomitutu, Damilola Esinogbamilaye, Quomarudeen Ayeloyun Baba Iyawo and Alawiye Ahmad.
They described their departed former leader as “gentle, God-fearing, accommodating and a leader with exemplary qualities.”
Also, a leading Islamic singer in Niger State, Shereefdeen Abiola Jamiu, described Ariyo, who died at 53, as “a reliable mentor and role model, whose departure will leave a big vacuum in the association.”
The current president of the association, As-Sideeq, said a date for the artistes’ night being planned for the late singer would be announced today.
He also disclosed that the final fidau would come up on Thursday at his residence.