17/02/2026
Sheikh Abdulfatai Abdulkareem Olawale (Abulifatih) was a towering figure in the propagation of Islam in western Nigeria, particularly in Lagos states. He his Known for his profound remarkable uplift of Islamic Dawah , he was a bridge between traditional Islamic scholarship and modern proselytization.
Biography: Sheikh Abdulfatai Abdulkareem Olawale (Abulifatih)
Background and Early Life
Sheikh Abdulfatai was born in April 3rd, 1979, in Epe, Lagos State—a city historically referred to as "Eko" in Nigeria. He hailed from a lineage deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. His nickname, "Abulifatih," which translates to "Father of victory" or "Father of Opening" became a household name, signifying his devotion to the divine.
Growing up in the culturally rich environment of Lagos, he was immersed in the communal spirit of the Alfa (scholar) culture from a very young age.
Education:
His educational journey followed both the traditional path of a West African Muslim scholar & western education system
Quranic Foundation: He began by memorizing the Quran in his local neighborhood.
Advanced Arabic Studies: He moved on to study Ilm (knowledge) under various prominent scholars in Lagos, focusing on Nahw (Arabic Grammar), Sarf (Morphology), and Fiqh (Jurisprudence).
Specialization: He was known for his mastery of the Arabic language, which he used to deconstruct complex theological concepts into the Yoruba language for his audience.
Impact on Islam
The Sheikh’s impact was characterized by his unique style of Dawah, His contributions include:
Commenmorating the birth of the prophet (S.A.W): this was the best thing he loved most during his lifetime and died on.
Mentorship: He trained numerous students who have since become Mukadams and scholars in their own right, ensuring his methodology of teaching survived his lifetime.
Death and Legacy
Sheikh Abdulfatai Abdulkareem Olawale (Abulifatih) passed away on December 26th, 2024. His death was mourned by the Agbarigidoma’s , the league of Imams of gberigbe, Lagos , and lot of followers in Lagos .
His funeral in Lagos was a massive gathering, reflecting the high esteem in which he was held. He is remembered not for his material wealth, but for his eloquence, humility, and the spiritual awakening he brought to the grassroots Muslim community in Nigeria.
"A scholar's death is like a lamp being extinguished in a dark room; the light may be gone, but the path he showed remains." — A common tribute paid to him by his students.
