The Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate, Sheikh Bashir Soliu, is dead.
The revered Islamic scholar and spiritual leader passed away on Monday, throwing the Ilorin Emirate and the wider Muslim community in Kwara State into mourning.
As of the time of filing this report, details surrounding his death remained sketchy, but credible sources confirmed the development.
Sheikh Soliu, popularly known as Imam Fulani, served as the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate, a position he occupied for more than 40 years.
He was appointed in 1983 by the then Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Zuluqarnain Muhammadu Gambari, following the death of Imam Musa Ahmad.
Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, the late cleric rose through decades of Islamic learning, teaching and leadership to become one of the most influential religious figures in the state.
During his long reign, Sheikh Soliu was widely respected for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, firm leadership in religious affairs and unwavering commitment to peace, unity and religious tolerance.
He was regarded as a stabilising force within the Muslim community and beyond, often promoting harmony and coexistence in Ilorin and its environs.
The late Chief Imam came from a distinguished lineage of Islamic scholars.
His father, Imam Saliu Omo Onida Abdulkadir, was the 7th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate, further underscoring the family’s longstanding contribution to Islamic leadership in the emirate.