Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, on Saturday led a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Kwara State to condole with the government and people of the state over the deaths of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu, and the Chief Imam of Kaiama, Alhaji Umar Sabi Mohammed.

The delegation was received at the Government House, Ilorin, by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq before proceeding to the Emir’s Palace and the residence of the late Chief Imam to deliver President Bola Tinubu’s message of sympathy.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Deputy President of the Senate, Malam Ismail Mudashir, Barau said the visit was on behalf of President Tinubu and the Federal Government to honour the memories of the late Islamic leaders and acknowledge their contributions to Islam and national unity.

Members of the delegation included Governors Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, and Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State. Former Governors Yahaya Bello of Kogi State and Adamu Aleiro of Kebbi State were also in attendance.

Also present was the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabiru Masari.

Speaking during the visit, Barau described the late Chief Imam of Ilorin as a devoted cleric who dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity.

He said, “The late Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu was a truthful and upright cleric who spent his lifetime propagating Islam and promoting peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. His death is a great loss not only to Kwara State but to the entire country.”

He prayed that Allah grants the deceased eternal rest and gives their families and followers the strength to bear the loss.

Responding, Governor AbdulRazaq appreciated President Tinubu and the delegation for the condolence visit, describing it as a strong show of solidarity with the people of the state in their moment of grief.

He noted that the late clerics played significant roles in spiritual guidance, peacebuilding and community development across Kwara State.