The Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate in Kwara State, Sheikh Bashir Soliu, has died at the age of 75. The revered Islamic scholar and spiritual leader passed away on Monday, throwing the Ilorin Emirate and the wider Muslim community into mourning.
Although details surrounding his death remain unclear as of the time of filing this report, multiple sources confirmed the development on Monday.
Sheikh Soliu, popularly known as Imam Fulani, was born in Ilorin and rose through decades of Islamic learning, teaching and leadership to become one of the most influential religious figures in Kwara State. He served as the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate, a position he held for more than 40 years following his appointment in 1983.
He was appointed by the late Emir of Ilorin, Zuluqarnain Muhammadu Gambari, after the death of his predecessor, Imam Musa Ahmad. His father, Imam Saliu Omo Onida Abdulkadir, was the seventh Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate.
During his long tenure, the late cleric was widely respected for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, firm leadership in religious affairs, and commitment to peace, unity and religious tolerance within and beyond the Muslim community.
