19/01/2026
*🐎🐎🐎OMO ALFA ALIMI ILORIN EMIRATE ASSOCIATION*🐎🐎🐎
Ilorin has lost not just a religious leader, but a towering spiritual institution. The death of the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin, Late Shaykh (Dr.) Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih, OON, marks the end of an era defined by knowledge, discipline, humility, and unwavering devotion to Islam and humanity.
Born on 7th July, 1950, the late Chief Imam was destined for spiritual greatness. His journey into history was formally sealed when he was appointed by the 9th Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Shehu Zuluqarnaini Gambari Mohammed, to occupy the sacred seat of Imamship. On Saturday, 15th October, 1983, he became the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin, a position he occupied with honour, wisdom, and rare consistency for 43 remarkable years.
Throughout his long reign from 1983 to 2026, the late Shaykh served three Emirs of Ilorin, maintaining a reputation for loyalty, balance, and principled counsel. His tenure was characterised by calm authority, deep scholarship, and an uncommon ability to unite people across social, ethnic, and ideological lines.
Globally recognised for his intelligence, commitment, discipline, and uniquely commanding voice, the Chief Imam represented Ilorin and Nigeria with dignity on international religious platforms. His sermons were not just heard; they were felt—firm yet compassionate, scholarly yet accessible.
In recognition of his immense contributions to Islam and national development, he was honoured with the National Award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2012 by His Excellency, President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR. He also received an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Belaze University, United Kingdom, in 2013, affirming his global scholarly relevance.
Even in death, his legacy continued to speak. His biography, “The Spiritual Orator,” a powerful documentation of his life, teachings, and impact, was launched on Thursday, 27th November, 2025, barely weeks before his passing—an immortal testimony to a life well lived.
Sadly, on Monday, 19th January, 2026, the revered Islamic scholar returned to his Creator after a brief illness. His death sent waves of grief across Ilorin Emirate, Nigeria, and the global Muslim community.
Late Shaykh (Dr.) Muhammad Bashir Imam Solih was more than a Chief Imam—he was a moral compass, a bridge between generations, and a symbol of religious stability in Ilorin for over four decades.
Though he has answered the call of Allah, his teachings, legacy, and prayers for Ilorin will continue to echo through time.
Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.
May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and comfort the Emir, The Family, Ilorin Emirate and the entire Ummah.
WE WILL ALL MISS THE VOICE WE GREW UP TO💔.
