The Unforgettable Journey with Azeez Odunjo: A Legacy of Friendship, Resilience, and Character

Bismillahir-Rahmaanir-Raheem

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Him, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and peace and blessings be upon His final messenger, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his household, his companion, and the entire muslim Ummah till the day of resurrection.

In the journey of life, certain people come into our lives and leave an indelible mark that shapes who we are. Azeez Odunjo, fondly called Odunjo, is one such person. As I reflect on the years we spent together, I realize how profoundly his presence has influenced me. His life is a testament to steadfast principles, deep friendships, and a resilience that inspires everyone who knows him. This account is a personal reflection on my experiences with him—one that highlights the lessons he taught me, the memories we shared, and the strength of his character. Through these stories, I hope to honor a friendship that has truly shaped my journey.

Introduction

He is Azeez Odunjo Oluwadamilare Abu Izzah. A proud son of Ibadan, the iconic “city of brown roofs,” Odunjo carries with him a rich cultural heritage that reflects in his words and actions. With his dark complexion, modest height, and a smile that always radiates warmth, Odunjo’s unassuming appearance belies the brilliance he possesses.

A graduate of Statistics from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Odunjo distinguished himself not only in academics but also as a gifted poet whose works have found homes in various magazines and literary platforms worldwide. His leadership as Editor-in-Chief of the MSSN An-Nuur Press Agency during the 2022/2023 academic session showcased both his administrative skills and creative vision. Above all, he is a devoted Muslim whose Islamic principles guide every step of his journey.

May Allah bless him abundantly and grant him success in all his endeavors. Ameen.

Our Journey Together

It was an unforgettable four years with Odunjo, a brilliant, caring, and energetic individual. Although his temperament occasionally veered away from gentleness, his fiery passion for life made him all the more endearing. I first met Odunjo during our second year at the Central Mosque Hall. What started as a casual acquaintance quickly blossomed into a profound friendship—a journey that could be likened to traversing an unpredictable landscape.

There were times when the path was smooth, filling our hearts with joy and laughter, and other times when we faced storms that tested our resolve. Yet, through every sunny day and stormy night, our friendship only grew stronger. Each challenge we faced shaped us into better individuals, and every moment of happiness became a cherished memory.

Odunjo taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and patience. In many ways, he was like an elder brother to me, offering guidance, protection, and support when I needed it most. Whether it was academic challenges, personal struggles, or moments of doubt, he was there, a constant source of strength. I treasure every moment we shared, and I carry these lessons with me as a precious legacy.

Character and Personality

Odunjo is like a rare gem—one that dazzles not because it is flawless but because its brilliance overshadows its imperfections. His personality is a tapestry woven with care, love, truthfulness, trustworthiness, intelligence, cheerfulness, and kindness. His sense of style is simple yet dignified, always adhering to Islamic principles. His infectious energy and unyielding determination make him stand out in any crowd.

Of course, he has his quirks. Odunjo is “talkative,” always eager to share thoughts and ideas, often sparking meaningful conversations. “Please, help me quickly check this!” – This was Odunjo’s frequent request every time he crafted a new poem. It became almost a ritual—one that most people who lived with him at some point could recount vividly. His enthusiasm for poetry and the unique way he involved those around him are a testament to his character. 

Then there’s his infamous relationship with deadlines. It’s almost as if he thrives on the adrenaline rush of last-minute pressure. Be it an assignment, a poetry contest, or a press submission, he consistently delivers just in time. It’s both a source of amusement and admiration for those who know him.

Despite his flaws, Odunjo’s virtues far outweigh them. His uniqueness lies in his ability to connect deeply with people, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he meets. May Allah bless him with a righteous spouse and continued success. Ameen.

Shared Experiences

Spending four solid years with Odunjo was nothing short of remarkable. We faced life’s ups and downs together, navigating challenges and celebrating victories. In our second year (200L), I relied on him for support during my time at the Central Mosque. He often took charge of cooking, and though times were tough, our partnership made things easier. He even helped me tackle challenging MTH courses, demonstrating both his brilliance and generosity.

When I visited the Central Mosque Hall, I often said loudly, “Give Muslim food o!” It was a joke, but Odunjo quickly picked it up and started calling me “Muslim.” He said it so often that everyone else started calling me the same name. Odunjo’s habit of repeating it made the name stick. Before long, almost everyone thought “Muslim” was my real name. If you ever hear someone call me “Muslim,” now you know it was because of Odunjo.

In our third year (300L), we became roommates in Fajuyi Hall. Sharing a room brought us even closer. We cooked together, argued over trivial matters, and reconciled almost immediately. Our bond was like that of brothers, unwavering and enduring. As the saying goes, “A friend in need is a friend indeed,” and Odunjo exemplified this in every way.

Though we lived separately in our fourth year (400L), our connection remained strong. We saw each other almost daily, collaborated on MSSN An-Nuur Press projects, and continued to support one another. Our shared moments—the laughter, the struggles, the achievements—remain some of the most beautiful memories of my university days.

Food Chronicles

No biography of Odunjo would be complete without mentioning his relationship with food. He has a well-known love for amala, a dish he can prepare so perfectly that it feels like a journey to culinary heaven with every bite. His overall cooking skills, however, are inconsistent. Some days, he would whip up an impressive meal; other days, his efforts were, well, less than stellar. But regardless of the outcome, his willingness to cook was always appreciated.

Impact and Legacy

Odunjo’s impact on my life is profound. He has taught me the importance of perseverance, patience, and resilience. Through his actions, he showed me what it means to be a true friend—someone who stands by you, encourages you, and challenges you to be better. His unwavering dedication to his goals and his ability to find beauty in the world through poetry inspire me to pursue my passions with similar zeal.

Reflections and Future

What makes this experience stand out is the depth of our bond and the mutual growth we experienced. Odunjo’s presence in my life has shaped my values and strengthened my resolve. As I look to the future, I am optimistic about the paths we will continue to forge together. Whether it’s through collaborative projects, shared aspirations, or simply maintaining the friendship we’ve built, I believe the future is bright.

Together, I am confident that we will achieve great things, leaving a legacy of our own. 

May Allah, the Most Merciful, continue to bless Azeez Odunjo with success, guidance, and steadfastness in all his endeavors. I pray that He grants him happiness in this life and the Hereafter, and surrounds him with His mercy and protection. May Allah reward him for his efforts, his friendship, and his unwavering commitment to His path. 

O Allah, bless us with the best of both worlds and make us among those who are a source of good and inspiration to others. Ameen.

By Abdulmalik Yakub,
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