Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, Dies at 75, Emir Mourns, to be Buried Today by 4 pm

 Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, Dies at 75, Emir Mourns, to be Buried Today by 4 pm


The Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, has passed away at 75, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to Islamic education, community service, and peaceful coexistence. He was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate in 1983 by the former Emir of Ilorin, Zuluqarnain Muhammadu Gambari .


The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has expressed deep sadness over his demise, describing him as 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," the Emir said. The Janazah (funeral prayer) will be held at the Palace Square of the Emir of Ilorin today, Monday, January 19, 2026, at 4 pm 


Sheikh Saliu's legacy includes transforming the Ilorin Central Mosque, leading the annual Ramadan Tefsir, and conducting the Eid El Adha prayer virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. He received several awards, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2012 and an honorary doctorate degree from Belaze University, UK, in 2013

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