Ilorin Chief Imam, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih, Dies at 75

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has announced the passing of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih, OON.
The announcement was made in a condolence message issued on Monday by the Emir’s Press Secretary, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona, in which the monarch expressed deep sorrow over the loss while submitting to the will of Almighty Allah.
According to reports, the revered Islamic scholar died in the early hours of Monday at the age of 75.
“Inna lillahi waina ilaehi roji’un. It is with total submission to the will of Almighty Allah that we receive the news of the demise of the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih Onida, OON,” the Emir said.
Reflecting on the life and character of the late cleric, the Emir described him as a man of exceptional intellect, integrity and devotion whose death has left the Ilorin Emirate in profound grief.
“He was a cleric with unique features — intelligence, honesty, loyalty, dedication and tolerance. His demise has caused us great sadness of no particular measure. We reflect on his lifetime as a man of honour and deep piety,” the monarch stated.
The Emir also praised the late Chief Imam for his significant role in fostering unity within the Muslim community and promoting peaceful coexistence across religious divides in Kwara State.
“Late Imam Solih was full of wisdom. He was notable for unifying Muslim clerics and for promoting inter-religious harmony in the state,” he added.
Announcing burial arrangements, the Emir disclosed that the janazah (funeral prayers) would take place at the Palace Square of the Emir of Ilorin by 4 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026.
He concluded by praying for the repose of the cleric’s soul, asking Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
The late Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih served as the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin for over four decades, having assumed the position in 1983. He also served as the Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Ulama, Alfas and Imams, and was widely respected for his leadership, scholarship and commitment to peace.