…Azhari-Trained Scholar Takes Helm of Historic Religious Office at 42
The Ilorin Emirate has entered a new chapter in its rich Islamic history with the appointment of Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki as the 13th Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin, a position regarded as one of the most influential religious offices in the ancient emirate.
The appointment, formally approved by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari (CFR), followed a rigorous selection process involving prominent Islamic scholars and religious leaders across the emirate.
At 42, Sheikh Dasuki succeeds the late Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Saliu (OON), who served as the 12th Chief Imam Fulani from 1983 until his passing in January 2026.
His emergence has been widely welcomed by Islamic scholars, traditional institutions, government officials, and members of the Muslim community, many of whom describe the appointment as a recognition of scholarship, piety, leadership, and commitment to community service.
The office of the Chief Imam Fulani occupies a central place in the religious and cultural life of the Ilorin Emirate. Beyond leading congregational prayers and major Islamic ceremonies, the position serves as a symbol of spiritual guidance, religious education, and community cohesion.
Announcing the appointment, the Emirate expressed confidence in Sheikh Dasuki’s ability to provide sound religious leadership and strengthen the emirate’s longstanding tradition of Islamic scholarship.
Observers say the selection reflects the emirate’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing a younger generation of religious leaders capable of addressing contemporary challenges facing the Muslim community.
For many residents of Ilorin, Sheikh Dasuki’s appointment represents both continuity and renewal.
He comes from one of the emirate’s most respected scholarly families. His grandfather, Sheikh Ibrahim Dasuki, served as the 8th Chief Imam Fulani of Ilorin, while his father, Sheikh Maliki bn Dasuki, held the position as the 10th Chief Imam Fulani.
The family has played a significant role in shaping Islamic learning and religious leadership within the emirate for generations.
Community leaders note that while his lineage is notable, Sheikh Dasuki’s emergence was ultimately driven by his personal achievements, scholarship, and contributions to Islamic education.
Sheikh Dasuki’s educational journey reflects years of dedicated Islamic learning.
He obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Islamic Shari’ah from Al-Azhar University in Cairo in 2014, joining the ranks of scholars trained at one of the world’s most prestigious centres of Islamic learning.
He also earned a Diploma in Arabic and Islamic Education from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Islamic Studies at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin.
His academic background has earned him respect among scholars and students alike, positioning him as a bridge between classical Islamic scholarship and modern educational engagement.
Beyond the classroom, Sheikh Dasuki has devoted much of his life to teaching, mentoring, and community development.
He is the founder and proprietor of Darul Bisharah Arabic and Islamic Studies in Ilorin, where he has trained students in Islamic jurisprudence, Qur’anic studies, and moral instruction.
He also serves as Imam of the Afsat Oloriegbe Memorial Mosque in Oko-Olowo, Ilorin, where he leads daily and Friday congregational prayers.
His influence extends into the media space through the Al-Bisharah Islamic Foundation Ramadan programme on Radio Kwara, where he has reached wider audiences with teachings on faith, morality, and community development.
In addition, he has served as an instructor at Darul Kitab College of Arabic and Islamic Studies, helping to nurture future generations of Islamic scholars.
The appointment has attracted commendations from across Kwara State and beyond.
Political leaders, traditional rulers, Islamic organisations, and community groups have congratulated the new Chief Imam, expressing confidence in his ability to advance religious harmony and educational development.
Many have highlighted his youthful energy, academic credentials, and reputation for humility as qualities that will strengthen the institution and inspire younger Muslims.
Stakeholders have also praised the transparent selection process that produced him, describing it as a reflection of the emirate’s commitment to merit, consensus, and religious integrity.
As Chief Imam Fulani, Sheikh Dasuki is expected to lead major Islamic activities within the emirate, promote religious education, provide spiritual guidance, and contribute to efforts aimed at fostering peace and unity among residents.
His appointment comes at a time when religious leaders are increasingly called upon to address social challenges, strengthen moral values, and promote peaceful coexistence across diverse communities.
For many observers, his emergence symbolizes the enduring strength of Ilorin’s scholarly tradition and the continued relevance of faith-based leadership in shaping society.
With a strong educational background, a distinguished family heritage, and years of service to the Muslim community, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Dasuki now assumes one of Ilorin’s most revered religious responsibilities, carrying forward a legacy that has shaped the emirate for generations.
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