The Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, has passed away.
The revered Islamic scholar and spiritual leader died on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the age of 75.
Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu devoted his life to Islamic scholarship, teaching, and service to the Ilorin Emirate. Widely respected for his depth of knowledge and spiritual guidance, he was regarded as one of the most influential Islamic leaders in Kwara State and beyond.
Popularly known as Imam Fulani, Sheikh Saliu was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin in 1983 by the former Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Zuluqarnain Muhammadu Gambari, following the death of Imam Musa Ahmad. He held the revered position for over four decades, providing consistent religious leadership and promoting peace, unity, and moral discipline within the community.
The late cleric hailed from a distinguished lineage of Islamic scholars. His father, Imam Saliu Omo Onida Abdulkadir, served as the 7th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate.
Throughout his tenure, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu was known for his humility, devotion to Islamic principles, and unwavering commitment to the spiritual well-being of the people of Ilorin.
His death mark the end of an era in the religious history of the Ilorin Emirate and has left a profound sense of loss among Muslims and residents of Kwara State.
May Allah grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort his family, the Ilorin Emirate, and the entire Muslim Ummah.
