ุฅููููุง ูููููู ููุฅูููููุง ุฅููููููู ุฑูุงุฌูุนููู
Born on June 12, 1942, to the Odigbo Family in Ikare Akoko, Ondo State, Alhaji J.B. Sododo was destined for a life of spiritual service. His nickname, "Sododo" โ He Who Speaks the Truth, was given by his tutor, Late Sheikh Nojimudeen Alkuburah (RTA) and popularized by his other tutor Late Sheik Adam Abdullah Al-Ilory (RTA). It became the guiding principle of his life.
His academic excellence took him from Markaz Agege to the world-renowned Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, where he graduated in 1986. An international scholar and pioneer, he was the first to introduce the Morikazi style of Quranic recitation on Nigerian radio and television and a teacher to icons like the late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.
A pillar of leadership, he served as the Pioneer Chief Imam of renowned institutions including Murhi International Mosque and Bintin Laye Central Mosque. His spiritual authority extended far beyond Lagos, leading numerous State Central Mosques across Nigeria and presiding over congregations throughout Africa and the international community.
His mission was truly global; he traveled the world extensively, spreading knowledge from neighbouring countries like Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana , across the African continent (Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, etc) to Europe, Asia, and North America. He was a man without borders, fueled by faith and an unwavering commitment to truth.
The flame of truth and scholarship burns brightly through the next generation.
Pioneer Chief Imam, Bintin Laye Central Mosque
Successor & Current Chief Imam
Today, Alhaji Selim Sododo continues his fatherโs work at Bintin Laye Central Mosque and Lagos State House, providing spiritual guidance and upholding the familyโs commitment to the Ummah.
Fifteen years ago today, the world lost a light, and I lost my best friend.
You were the first hero I ever knew. You valued education above all else, pouring your life into ensuring I stood tall. The most bittersweet moment of my life is knowing that you stayed just long enough to see me finish from NYSC. 10 days. That was all the time we had left after that milestone.
It pains my heart that you didn't live to eat the physical fruit of your labor, the comfort and the rest you so richly deserved. I always feel honoured to know I am your fruit (Sodus Species). Every success I have is a harvest from the seeds you planted in the "wilderness" of your journey.
You were a great husband to my late Mother, a protector to your children, a pillar to your siblings, and a guide to your friends. A truly good man.
ุงูููู ุงุบูุฑ ููู ุง ูุงุฑุญู ูู ุง
O Allah, forgive the shortcomings of our Father, Alhaji J.B. Sododo, and our Mother, Alhaja S. Sododo (dec. 2018). They were the pillars of my life. Reunite them in the highest gardens of Jannah. Widen their graves, fill them with light, and let them find peace in each other's company once more in Your presence.
Aamin.
Imam Sododo with MKO Abiola
Imam Sododo in USA 2022-23
