The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has confirmed the passing of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih OON.
In a condolence message released on Monday by his Press Secretary, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona, the Emir expressed acceptance of Allah’s will and shared the news of the cleric’s death. Reports indicate that the Chief Imam passed away early Monday at the age of 75.
The Emir stated, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. We receive the news of the demise of the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih Onida OON, with full submission to Almighty Allah’s will.”
He described the late Imam as a man of exceptional qualities, including intelligence, honesty, loyalty, dedication, and tolerance. The Emir emphasized the deep sense of loss the Ilorin Emirate feels and reflected on the Imam’s life as one marked by honor and piety.
“Late Imam Solih was renowned for his wisdom and played a significant role in unifying Muslim clerics while promoting interfaith harmony across the state,” the Emir added.
The Emir also shared the funeral arrangements for the revered cleric. Janazah prayers were scheduled to hold at the Palace Square of the Emir of Ilorin at 4 pm on Monday, January 19, 2026.
Prayers were offered for the deceased, asking Almighty Allah to forgive his sins, accept his good deeds, and grant him a place in Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih served as the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin for over four decades, having held the position since 1983. In addition to his religious duties, he was Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Ulama, Alfas, and Imams, influencing both religious practice and community cohesion throughout the state.
