Emir of Ilorin Mourns Death of Long-Serving Chief Imam Bashir

The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh (Dr.) Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih Saliu, who died at the age of 75.

Appointed as the 12th Chief Imam in 1983, Sheikh Bashir served the Ilorin Emirate for over four decades, becoming one of the longest-serving spiritual leaders in the region. During his tenure, he was widely respected for his scholarship, commitment to Islamic teachings, and efforts to foster peace and unity among the Muslim community. In an official condolence message, the Emir described the late cleric as a man of “unique character, intelligence, honesty, loyalty, and tolerance,” and praised his role as a unifier of Muslim clerics and a promoter of interfaith harmony. He added that the news of Sheikh Bashir’s death brought “great sadness” to the Ilorin Emirate and its people. The Emir confirmed that the janazah (funeral) prayer would take place today, Monday, January 19, at 4 pm, at the Palace Square of the Emir of Ilorin. In his message, the Emir prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the late Chief Imam’s shortcomings, accepts his good deeds, and admits him into Al‑Janatul Firdaus. Sheikh Bashir’s passing marks the end of an era in Ilorin’s religious leadership. His decades-long service and emphasis on peace, unity, and tolerance have left a lasting legacy in both the local community and Nigerian society at large.