The Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, has died, the Emir of Ilorin’s spokesman, Abdulazeez Arowona, has confirmed.
The Islamic scholar reportedly passed away on Monday in Abuja after a brief illness. He was 75 years old.
A statement issued by Arowona said details of the burial arrangements would be announced later.
Sheikh Saliu was born in Ilorin, Kwara State, and dedicated his life to Islamic scholarship and service to the Ilorin Emirate.
He became the Chief Imam of Ilorin in October 1983 at the age of 33 and served in the position for over four decades.
He was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate and was regarded as one of the most influential religious figures in Kwara State.
Throughout his tenure, the late Chief Imam was respected for his deep knowledge of Islamic teachings, leadership in religious affairs, and advocacy for peace, unity, and religious tolerance.
He was also known for his distinctive Qur’anic recitation and for mentoring a new generation of Islamic scholars.
