The Northern Senators Forum has expressed deep grief over the death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin Emirate, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Soliu, describing his passing as a major loss to Kwara State and the nation.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, said the late Islamic scholar was a respected voice of peace and moral guidance whose influence extended far beyond Ilorin Emirate.

According to the statement, Sheikh Bashir Soliu devoted his life to the propagation of Islamic teachings, the promotion of unity, and the encouragement of peaceful coexistence among communities. His leadership and scholarship, the Forum noted, helped shape religious discourse and foster harmony within and outside Kwara State.

Senator Yar’Adua conveyed the Forum’s condolences to the Government and people of Kwara State, the Emir of Ilorin, and the Muslim community across the country, noting that the cleric’s death has left a void that will be difficult to fill.

He added that the late Chief Imam’s humility, wisdom, and commitment to faith earned him wide respect, inspiring generations of followers and scholars.

The Forum prayed for Almighty Allah to grant the deceased eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus and urged Nigerians, particularly the Muslim faithful, to remain united in prayer and support for the bereaved family and the Ilorin Emirate during the period of mourning.