The Turaki of Ilorin and Senator representing Kwara Central in the National Assembly, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has expressed deep shock over the passing of the Chief Imam of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Ulama, Sheikh Muhammed Bashir Solihu, describing his death as a monumental loss to Ilorin Emirate, Kwara State and the entire Nigerian Muslim community.
In a personally issued condolence message, Senator Mustapha said the demise of the revered Islamic scholar is devastating, noting that Sheikh Solihu lived a life of service, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the cause of Islam and humanity.
According to the lawmaker, the late Chief Imam’s legacy of scholarship, humility and moral leadership would endure for generations.
He said the renowned cleric would be fondly remembered for his immense contributions to the growth of Islam, peaceful coexistence and community development, as well as his role in strengthening religious harmony within Ilorin Emirate and beyond.
While commiserating with the Executive Governor of the State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, CON, Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, CFR, the Kwara State Council of Ulama, the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union, the immediate family of the late Chief Imam and the entire Muslim Ummah, Senator Mustapha prayed that Allaah forgive the deceased, his shortcomings and grant him al-janar firdaus.
The senator described the late Chief Imam as a father, mentor and moral compass whose counsel and wisdom shaped many lives across generations.
He added that Sheikh Solihu’s passing has created a vacuum that would be difficult to fill, given his decades of dedicated service to Islam and the Ilorin Emirate.