Despite the challenges she faces regularly as a female custodian of Islamic knowledge, empowering voices of women in Islamic and social activities, Alhaja Kafilat Rufai a.k.a. Kaola has continued to play vital roles in advancing the Muslim community in Nigeria. The Ibadan, Oyo State born religious leader, who encourages women to take up their assigned roles in the male-dominated society, is not only a great scholar, but is also a charitable woman. This strong, resilient and intelligent woman who had authority in a number of areas, speaks in this interview monitored by the Editor, FOLORUNSHO HAMSAT, about her mission and vision for Islam, as well as secrets around her life. Enjoy…
Tell us the secret behind the popularity of your name, Kaola.
Our elders say, the bigger the head the bigger the challenge. In meaning, the more the wealth the more the responsibilities. On that note, I would give glory to God almighty for standing by me always. He has never for once disappointed me because I have always walked in His path.
How do you feel when people talk about you or mention you in controversial issues?
It does not move me. My system has been immune to controversies since I was a teenager. My father had warned me of the challenges I would encounter in the future because I was destined to be a great person in life. He said I would face challenges but no matter how demanding the challenges are, he said I would be undefeated. So, I naturally am not bothered by the noise about me because they have been predicted.
How do you deal with controversy when they happen?
I take the noises with calmness. And I have noticed that when the noises are happening, Allah blesses me the most. I begin to attract more wealth, it brings me more honour, and peace of the mind. You can call it a blessing in disguise.
