The event held at Ori-omi Abeokuta drew dignitaries from across Ogun State, served not only as a farewell but also as a celebration of a man remembered for his humility, kindness, and dedication to both family and community.
In her tribute, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde described her late brother as a rare gem who played multiple roles in her life. Fighting back tears, she said, “My brother, Alhaji Razaq Sarumi, is a good person. He stood by me when he was alive. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljanah Firdaus.”
She went on to speak about the deep bond they shared, calling him both “a father and a brother.” She recalled his patience and understanding nature, saying, “He is the only one that can handle me when I’m angry. I’ll miss him a lot.”
Alhaja Faidat also took the opportunity to express gratitude to all those who came to commiserate with the family during the difficult period.
She extended her appreciation to former Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, Senator Olamileka Adeola( Yayi) House of Representatives member Hon. Olumide Osoba, Executive Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Lanre Oyegbola Sodipo,Terico from Ifo, Sulaiman Sanni, Hon. Yemi Adelani, Hon. Taiwo Oludotun, Engineer Tajudeen Ishola, the Apex Leaders of Abeokuta North, and members of her extended family.
She urged the late Sarumi’s children to remain steadfast and independent, saying, “My advice for the children is that they shouldn’t think they have somebody. I struggled for myself; they should also go out and make it in life and be successful.”
The deceased, Alhaji Abdul Razaq Sarumi, was described as a disciplined soldier, a kind-hearted neighbour, and a unifying force in his community. His passing left a significant void, not only in his family but also among residents of Lafenwa and the wider Gbagura community.
Speaking about his late father, Sarumi Saheed, son of the deceased, noted that his father was a man who valued unity above all else. “My father doesn’t play with his family; he brings us together. He is the head of our family. He is a very humble man who doesn’t argue with anyone,” he said.
Similarly, Sakirat Sarumi, one of the late Alhaji’s daughters, described her father as a family man whose presence will be deeply missed. “My father is a good person who brings the family together even in the community. He loves his family and takes good care of us. I’ll miss a lot of this about him,” she said with emotion.
Community leaders also spoke glowingly about the deceased’s impact. Chief Nureini Ogunbayo, the Baale of Lafenwa, described Alhaji Sarumi as “a great man in the community, an honest and loyal man, both to his family and to the entire Gbagura community.” He further added that the deceased was “an elderly man who constantly gave wise advice and guidance to the younger generation.”
Many attendees highlighted his military background as a reflection of his discipline and integrity. As a soldier, he was known for his commitment to duty and patriotism, qualities that later defined his civilian life as a respected elder in the community.
Friends and associates described him as a man of peace who lived a simple life dedicated to service and family. His humility and generosity, they said, earned him the love and respect of everyone who crossed his path.
The late Alhaji Abdul Razaq Sarumi is survived by seven children who have vowed to uphold his values of honesty, unity, and compassion. His legacy, they said, would continue to live on through the lives he touched and the good deeds he left behind.
