Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq today expressed profound grief over the death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih (OON), who passed away on Monday in Abuja at the age of 75 following a brief illness.
The Governor described the late cleric as a beacon of Islamic scholarship, humility, and moral guidance whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRazaq stated, "I am saddened by the unfortunate death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih (OON), who passed on Monday morning in Abuja as Allah has unquestionably decreed for His servants."
He emphasized that the Sheikh represented the finest breed of Muslim scholarship in the history of Ilorin, adding that his passing serves as a poignant reminder of life's transience, even for great individuals.
The Governor hailed Sheikh Solih's outstanding contributions, noting that he would be remembered for his deep scholarship, patience, humility, and unwavering dedication to Islam and the Muslim community.
"Sheikh Muhammad Bashir served with distinction as the spiritual leader of Ilorin, guiding the faithful with wisdom and moral clarity," AbdulRazaq said. He highlighted the late Imam's role in promoting peace, tolerance, and unity within the Muslim Ummah, describing his life and teachings as having positively impacted countless lives.
Governor AbdulRazaq extended his sympathies to the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Ilorin Emirate, the Council of Ulama, and the family of the deceased. He called the loss irreparable, not only for the Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State but for the entire Muslim community.
The Governor prayed for Allah to forgive the Sheikh's shortcomings, accept his lifetime of service as acts of worship, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and provide comfort to his family and followers.
Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih, widely revered for his scholarly pursuits and community leadership, leaves behind a profound legacy in Islamic education and interfaith harmony.