The Ilorin Emirate has been thrown into mourning following the death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih OON, who passed away in the early hours of Monday at the age of 75.
The death was formally announced by the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, in a condolence message issued by his Press Secretary, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona.
Expressing total submission to the will of Allah, the Emir confirmed the passing of the respected cleric, describing it as a profound loss to the Ilorin Emirate and the wider Muslim community.
He said: “Inna lillahi waina ilaehi roji’un, it is with total submission to the will of Almighty Allah that we receive the news of the demise of the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih Onida OON.”
Reflecting on the life and character of the late Chief Imam, the Emir paid glowing tribute to his personal virtues, religious commitment, and service to humanity.
According to him: “He was a cleric with unique features, intelligence, honesty, loyalty, dedication, and tolerance. His demise has caused us in Ilorin Emirate great sadness of no particular measure. We reflect on his lifetime as a man of great honour and piety.”
The Emir further highlighted the late Imam’s pivotal role in strengthening unity among Muslim clerics and fostering peaceful coexistence across religious communities in Kwara State.
He said: “Late Imam Solih was full of wisdom, and he was notable for unifying the entire Muslim clerics as well as promoting inter-religious harmony in the state.”
Announcing burial arrangements, the Emir disclosed that the janazah prayer would be held at the Palace Square of the Emir of Ilorin by 4:00 pm on Monday, 19 January 2026.
About the Author
