The Kwara State Government has described the late Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Bashiru Solihu, as an outstanding role model whose life and teachings left a lasting impact on Muslims across Nigeria and beyond.
The commendation was made by the Special Adviser to the Kwara State Government, Saadu Salaudeen, while leading a government delegation to the Babatunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, to receive the remains of the deceased Islamic scholar from Abuja.
Speaking at the airport, Mr. Salaudeen said the late Chief Imam was not only a respected religious leader but also a globally recognised Islamic scholar whose life was defined by integrity, humility, and service to humanity.
READ MORE: What to Know About the Militants Targeted by U.S. Airstrikes in Northwest Nigeria
According to him, Sheikh Solihu exemplified the true teachings of Islam through his conduct and interactions with people of all faiths.
“He was a man of impeccable character and proven integrity. His death is a great loss to the Muslim Ummah. He genuinely lived by the principles of Islam, promoting generosity, peaceful coexistence, and unity among Muslims and non-Muslims alike,” Salaudeen said.
He further noted that the late cleric played a significant role in strengthening harmony within the Ilorin Emirate and beyond, adding that his absence would be deeply felt by the faithful.
The state government official extended heartfelt condolences to the Emir of Ilorin, the Kwara State Council of Ulama, and the entire people of the Ilorin Emirate over the irreparable loss.
Also paying tribute, the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Salihu Mustapha, described the late Chief Imam as a sincere and straightforward leader whose words and actions reflected deep piety and compassion.
According to the senator, the Ilorin community and the wider world have lost a kind-hearted, God-fearing, and loving scholar who dedicated his life to the service of Islam and humanity.
In a similar vein, the Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muyideen Hassan, described Sheikh Bashiru Solihu as a gentle and supportive leader under whose guidance many Islamic scholars flourished.
He said the late cleric was known for encouraging learning, mentoring younger scholars, and promoting unity within the Islamic community.
Sheikh Hassan also conveyed his condolences to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Council of Ulama, and the entire Ilorin Emirate, praying for Allah’s mercy upon the soul of the departed scholar.
The passing of Sheikh Bashiru Solihu has continued to draw tributes from religious leaders, public office holders, and members of the public, many of whom have described him as a beacon of Islamic scholarship, moral discipline, and peaceful leadership.
(NAN)
