Ilorin and the wider Muslim community have been thrown into mourning following the death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Solih, OON, a revered Islamic scholar and spiritual leader who guided the Ilorin Emirate for more than four decades.
The passing of the highly respected cleric was confirmed on Monday, bringing to an end a lifetime of devoted service to Islam, scholarship and communal harmony. He was born in Ilorin, Kwara State, where his journey into Islamic learning and leadership began.
Shaykh Bashir Solih rose through years of rigorous scholarship, teaching and religious service to become one of the most influential Islamic figures in Kwara State. In 1983, he was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate, a position he held with distinction for over 40 years.
Throughout his long tenure, the late Chief Imam was widely admired for his profound knowledge of Islamic teachings, firm yet compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to peace, unity and religious tolerance. He played a central role in promoting harmony not only among Muslims but also within the broader multi-faith society of the state.
Beyond Ilorin, Shaykh Bashir Solih was a towering religious authority, serving as the Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Ulama. His counsel was frequently sought on religious and moral matters, and he was known for his measured voice in times of social and religious tension.
Funeral arrangements have commenced, with his remains scheduled to depart Abuja in a private jet. The janazah (Islamic funeral prayer) is set to take place today at 4:00pm.
Tributes have continued to pour in from religious leaders, traditional rulers and members of the public, who have described his death as a monumental loss to Islam and the nation. Many have hailed his legacy as one defined by scholarship, humility and an enduring commitment to peaceful coexistence.
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