The Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, has died at the age 75.
Sheikh Saliu passed on in Abuja on Monday after a brief illness.
The spokesperson of the Emir of Ilorin, Abdulazeez Arowona, announced the Imam’s death, saying details of his burial arrangements will be announced later.
Sheikh Saliu, who was born in in Ilorin, Kwara State, dedicated his life to Islamic scholarship and service to the Ilorin Emirate.
He was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin in October 1983 at the age of 33.
Through years of learning, teaching and spiritual leadership, Sheikh Saliu became one of the most influential religious figures in the State.
He was widely respected for his deep knowledge of Islamic teachings, firm leadership in religious affairs and consistent advocacy for peace, unity and religious tolerance among Muslims and the wider society.
The late Chief Imam was also renowned for his distinctive voice in Qur’anic recitation and mentoring a new generation of scholars, leaving behind successors to continue his legacy in the field.
