A Tribute to the Late Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Bashir Solihi Imam

By: Hassan Saliu

On the 19th January, 2026, a bell rang, but not the usual one. This time, it tolled to announce the passing of the esteemed Sheikh Bashir Solihi, OON, the Chief Imam of Ilorin, and, by extension, Kwara State. A renowned scholar, Sheikh Imam Solihi, was a paragon of peace who avoided controversy at all costs. His humane disposition earned him immense respect and admiration in the community. He worked in tandem with the Emir of Ilorin, and his loyalty and commitment to the monarch were unwavering. His leadership extended beyond religious duties, as he actively contributed to community development, education, and social cohesion, leaving a lasting impact on Ilorin’s progress.

He was turbaned in 1983 as the 12th Chief Imam of Ilorin, following in his father’s footsteps, who also served as the town’s Chief Imam. The late Chief Imam was appointed to the position at the tender age of 32, with energy and devotion to duty. His sonorous voice has made telephone subscribers in Ilorin and elsewhere adopt his unique recitation of the Holy Quran as their ringtone. Upon his death last month, he had spent about 43 years in the position. More of Ilorin’s residents, especially the younger ones, knew little about his immediate predecessor. However, they were conversant with him and his majestic carriage, coupled with the imposing figure he carried. One of his legacies is ameena meta-meta, after offering each supplication, which has now become a tradition among our clerics both within and outside the state.

During his tenure as a foremost Imam in Ilorin, he demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, fostering a culture of consensus and inclusivity. This writer recalls a notable instance in which a contentious issue arose during a Council of Ulama meeting he chaired. A member suggested that the Council’s deliberations should not be taken to the Emir by the Chairman for vetting. However, I countered that, as the Council’s convener, the Emir has a right to a briefing on its proceedings. The late Chief Imam endorsed the submission, and he included the author on the team that briefed the Emir on the issue.

On another occasion, when there was an attack in a part of the state, and revelations challenged the prevailing notion about Fulani being behind all such attacks, he summoned us to a meeting in his house with the intent of issuing a press release. Everyone spoke on the issue, but when it was my turn to contribute, I endorsed the suggestion, while warning about the dangers. Our release might be seen as criticising the state government, putting us at odds with it.

Moreover, our effort would be taken out of context by the community as parroting a particular politician’s views on the issue. The Chairman, Chief Imam, and other members agreed with the writer, and we decided not to issue a statement. However, the situation was different when a young man murdered Hafsot Lawal in a celebrated ritual undertaking in Ilorin. We all agreed to hold a press conference to condemn the incident and emphasise that people should not use it to define Islam and that our religion does not support killing innocent souls.

The Chief Imam’s leadership style was shaped by his willingness to listen to diverse perspectives and his ability to synthesise complex ideas. His rulings on matters affecting the Council were informed by sound logic and good sense, earning him the respect of all members. He was a man of immense composure, rarely displaying anger or frustration, but exuding calmness and friendliness at all times. He was usually careful with his words, which he delivered in Yoruba, except when occasions demanded that he raise his voice and issue a command. Most times, after listening to everyone, he would remain silent, then give his verdicts, laced with wisdom and life experiences. Such conclusions were hardly contestable by anyone because of the deep reflections that informed them.

Sheikh Solihi’s ability to maintain cordial relationships with various Islamic groups was remarkable. Despite being from the Adabiyya Islamic family, he was acceptable to all camps, and his fairness and wisdom earned him the admiration of many. The leader of the Markaz group, Mudir Markaz, Habibullahi Adam, was always invited to deliver lectures on his occasions, a testament to his ecumenical spirit. His efforts fostered interfaith dialogue and unity among diverse community groups, thereby strengthening Ilorin’s social fabric.

As a family man, the Chief Imam was committed to his large family, and his household was a model of harmony and cohesion. During our meetings at his residence, his children from different mothers would attend to his needs and those of other members with diligence and respect. He was truly a lover of education, investing heavily in his children’s education. On one occasion, he sought my assistance in securing admission for one of his wards to the Usmanu Dan Fodio University, Sokoto. Unfortunately, the effort could not pull through. As a man of God, he did not allow that to affect our relationship. His mentorship extended beyond his family, inspiring many young scholars and community members to pursue knowledge and service, leaving a legacy of leadership and faith.

More on a personal note, the Chief Imam was always kind and supportive, and I benefited from his prayers and guidance. Some years ago, when this writer was indisposed and kept away from the Council for a while, he was concerned and wondered what was amiss. Later, when I visited him with a walking stick, he was worried and probably shed tears inside. On that day, he prayed for the former Secretary of the Council and invited his disciples to do the same. His unwavering support and trust in the author were a source of strength. He was at the writer’s family home to console them over the death of his mother in 2015. As later revealed by the family’s Magaji, it was the first time any Chief Imam had ever visited the family’s house. We showed him our gratitude for that.

His death is a personal loss to those of us who related to him intimately, as he was a source of inspiration, tolerant of us, and silently committed to our progress. The Chief Imam’s passing is a significant loss to the community, and his legacy will continue to inspire us. May his soul rest in peace and find favour in the sight of the Creator. As for those he has left behind, our prayer is that Allah may look after them and keep them united.

Professor Hassan A. Saliu is of Department of Political Science, University of Ilorin.
1st February, 2026