Among the crowd, Mr Lawal Saheed proclaimed, “If this is a crime, then may every richman in Kwara State become an offender”.
Another witness, Odunbaku Rasheed, chimed in with enthusiasm, “He made us feel important…..
In the vibrant and often humorous theater of Nigerian Philanthropist space, an unprecedented trial captured the nation’s attention, blending disbelief with laughter in equal measure amidst expectation of doubt
The center of this comedic courtroom drama was none other than Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode, a successful Realtor and founder of MOK Foundation amidst other businesses, a lover of the masses and the apple in the face of the underprivileged.
The charge against him? Listening to the yearnings of the underprivileged, providing for their needs, paying their hospital bills, lifting the youths out of mental and political slavery, payment of school fees , distribution of foods among other crimes, MOK’s approach was nothing short of revolutionary, giving hope to the common man.
This unusual case unfolded in the notorious Court of Public Misconception, with the ever-skeptical retired Justice Ignoramus Doubting presiding under Charge No: Humanity/Nig/QS/023. In an atmosphere charged with incredulity, the Judge bellowed, “Philanthropist? In this part of the world, rich men do not care about others, they decide first and explain never. What kind of humanity does this man has in mind?” Such a statement ignited murmurs throughout the court gallery, marking the surprising spectacle of humility, humbleness,giver and helper being put on trial.
Leading the prosecution was Hon. Politics, a self-proclaimed confuser of actions and thought, an authority armed with what he presented as irrefutable evidence of MOK’s supposed transgression while helping the underprivileged. “My Lord,” he began with theatrical flair, “the accused has been helping people, paying school fees, distributing foods, investing in youths development, bringing people out of abject poverty throughout the 16 LG in Kwara State — from Offa to Ilorin, to Tsaragi, Patigi, Omu Aran, Omupo, Oke Ode and others without holding any political Office, he has been listening to the voice of the under privileged. This sets a dangerous precedent for leadership.
With a dramatic adjustment of his wig, he continued, “Before he founded the MOK Foundation , this man was a habitual offender — empowering youth and women, providing digital skills training, paying hospital bills, electrifying communities, and awarding scholarships to deserving students. My Lord, this is not mere politics — it verges on humanitarian disturbance”
Justice Ignoramous gasped in disbelief, “He even dares to combine humbleness with helping? That’s a double offense”
Standing tall and composed for the defense was Barrister Humanity Common Sense, who entered the fray with his brief in hand and a tone of serene confidence. “With all due respect, My Lord, what my learned friend has labeled an ‘offense’ is embraced around the world as exemplary leadership in humanity and community services . Philanthropist is not rebellion; it is a mark of responsibility. Only serious-minded individuals decide to help people out of their hard earned money.
The Judge frowned, still caught off guard. “Are you suggesting this man is walking the path of greatness in Kwara and Nigeria?”
“Indeed, My Lord,” replied Barrister Common Sense earnestly. “He is infusing smiles into tears, bringing comfort closer to the people. His alleged crime embodies humanity personified at its purest.”
Laughter and applause erupted from the gallery, as more citizens murmured among themselves, “Perhaps we need more philanthropists like him”
After a tense silence, Justice Ignoramous delivered his verdict: “This Honourable Court finds Qs. Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode guilty of excessive humility, over helping the needy, posing a threat to useless politicians, among others. However, for the sake of the communities in Kwara State and future generations, the court hereby orders him to continue helping the underprivileged indefinitely. He is further required to spread this infectious disease of inclusiveness until every richmen in the community catches it.”
With the gavel’s final strike, the courtroom swelled with energy as people stood to applaud, not due to the conviction, but because, for the first time, a humble philanthropist was deemed guilty of doing what is right.
Among the crowd, Mr Lawal Saheed proclaimed, “If this is a crime, then may every richman in Kwara State become an offender”
Another witness, Odunbaku Rasheed, chimed in with enthusiasm, “He made us feel important”
Ultimately, this remarkable trial unveiled one undeniable truth: the true crime in philanthropist is not the act of giving, but rather the arrogance that so often defines it. If listening to the voices of the people is a punishable act, Kwara State may proudly recognize that its most dangerous criminal also stands as its most honorable leader.
As this great man add another year to his existence in the next few days, I pray for divine intervention from above, elevated standard and long life, MOK has been the best of us, history won’t be a bastard.
Temitope Muhideen is the publisher of Confidence News Nigeria and Member Greenfield Library Limited, Atlanta, USA.
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