The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Dr. Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih, the Chief Imam of Ilorin.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday by his media team, the Sultan described the late Islamic scholar as a scholar who devoted his life to the service of Allah, Islam, and humanity.
He extended his condolences to the Emir of Ilorin, the Kwara State Government, and the immediate family of the deceased cleric.
The Sultan said the late Shaykh Bashir Solih was widely respected for his loyalty to the principles of Islam, wisdom in guiding the faithful, and profound knowledge of Islamic scholarship.
“His loyalty to the principles of Islam, wisdom in guiding the faithful, and profound knowledge of Islamic scholarship earned him great respect, and we were living witnesses to that,” the Sultan said.
He noted that the late Chief Imam played a major role in promoting peaceful coexistence, unity, and harmony among Muslims and non-Muslims, describing his leadership as inspirational to countless individuals toward righteousness and moral uprightness.
According to him, Shaykh Bashir Solih’s deep understanding of the Qur’an, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence enriched Islamic literature through his scholarship and writings.
“He was a beacon of hope, guiding the Ilorin Emirate and the Muslim Ummah towards a brighter future with tireless efforts that earned him the respect and admiration of the Ilorin community and humanity at large,” the Sultan added.
Praying for the repose of the cleric’s soul, the Sultan asked Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings and admit him into Al-Jannah Firdaus.
“May the Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, bless and admit his gentle soul to Al-Jannah Firdaus, Ameen,” he prayed.
The statement was signed by the Media Team of the Sultan of Sokoto and dated Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
