Ilorin Chief Imam Sheikh Bashir dies at 75 after lifetime of service

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Islamic community in Ilorin, Kwara State and beyond is mourning the loss of Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, the revered Chief Imam of Ilorin, who passed away today at the age of 75.

His death was officially confirmed on Monday, marking the end of a distinguished career dedicated to Islamic scholarship and leadership within the Ilorin Emirate.

Sources close to the family and the Ilorin Central Mosque, where Sheikh Saliu served as Chief Imam, described his passing as peaceful, though details surrounding the cause remain private at this time.

Sheikh Saliu had been a pillar of the community for decades, guiding thousands through sermons, religious education, and counsel on matters of faith and governance.

Appointed Chief Imam in the early 2000s, he earned widespread respect for his profound knowledge of the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence, often bridging traditional teachings with contemporary challenges faced by Muslims in Nigeria.

Born in Ilorin in 1951, Sheikh Saliu began his religious studies at a young age, memorising the entire Quran by his early teens.

He pursued advanced Islamic education in institutions across Nigeria and abroad, including stints in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, before returning to serve his hometown.

His tenure as Chief Imam saw him lead major religious events, mediate community disputes, and advocate for unity in the diverse Ilorin Emirate, home to the Yoruba-speaking Muslim population under the Emir of Ilorin.

Tributes have begun pouring in from religious leaders, politicians, and residents.

The Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, issued a statement calling Sheikh Saliu “a beacon of piety and wisdom whose absence leaves a void in our spiritual firmament.”

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State also expressed condolences, praising the late Imam’s role in promoting peace and education.

Funeral arrangements are underway, with expectations of a janazah prayer at the Ilorin Central Mosque followed by burial in accordance with Islamic rites, likely later today or tomorrow pending family consultations.

The community has called for prayers and reflections on his legacy.