- he emerged as one of the most influential religious figures in the state
- He was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate in 1983
- the late Chief Imam was widely admired for his deep understanding of Islamic teachings
The Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, has died at the age of 75, bringing to an end decades of devoted religious service to the Ilorin Emirate and the wider Muslim community.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that his death was confirmed in a statement released on Monday, describing the late cleric as a revered Islamic scholar whose life was committed to learning, teaching, and spiritual leadership.
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Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Sheikh Saliu devoted his entire life to Islamic scholarship and the service of the emirate. Through years of study and mentorship, he emerged as one of the most influential religious figures in the state.
He was appointed the 12th Chief Imam of the Ilorin Emirate in 1983, a position he held for more than 40 years, providing steady guidance in religious and communal affairs.

Throughout his tenure, the late Chief Imam was widely admired for his deep understanding of Islamic teachings, principled leadership, and strong advocacy for peace, unity, and religious tolerance within and beyond the Muslim community.
The Ilorin Emirate Council is expected to announce details of his burial arrangements in due course.
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