Massive crowds gathered at the Emir of Ilorin’s palace on Monday to bid farewell to the late Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Bashir Solihu, who passed away at the age of 75.
The Janazah prayer was attended by prominent figures including the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki.
Photo: Dare Akogun
The late cleric, who served as the 12th Chief Imam for over four decades since his appointment in 1983, was hailed for his wisdom, interfaith harmony, and dedication to peace.
Photo: Dare Akogun
In a condolence message, President Bola Tinubu described Sheikh Solihu as “a devoted servant of Allah, a bridge-builder, and a voice of moderation.” He prayed for Allah to grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki said the Imam’s death was “a great loss to the Ilorin emirate and Nigeria,” adding that his over four decades of leadership made him a moral compass whose influence transcended the state.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed sadness, stating, “Sheikh Muhammad Bashir represented the finest breed of Muslim scholarship in the history of Ilorin… He will be missed for his uniquely outstanding scholarship.”
The Northern States Governors’ Forum also condoled with the family, noting the cleric’s embodiment of peace and selfless leadership.
Sheikh Solihu was born in 1950, began his Quranic education at Magaji Baboko Quranic School, and later attended Shaykh Abubakar Sakama school. He received an honorary doctorate from Belaze University, UK, in 2013.
