iDeemlawfulThe Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, is dead.
The respected Islamic cleric passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the age of 75.
A native of Ilorin in Kwara State, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu devoted his lifetime to Islamic learning and committed service within the Ilorin Emirate.
Through decades of study, instruction, and spiritual guidance, he emerged as one of the most prominent and influential religious leaders in the state.
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He was appointed as the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate in 1983, a role he faithfully occupied for more than forty years.
The late cleric was popularly known as Imam Fulani. His appointment was made by the former Emir of Ilorin, Zuluqarnain Muhammadu Gambari, following the death of Imam Musa Ahmad in 1983.
His lineage also reflected deep religious roots, as his father, Imam Saliu Omo Onida Abdulkadir, served as the 7th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate.