The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, *Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR*, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned Islamic scholar and cleric, *Sheikh Imam Abubakar Banni*.

In a condolence message issued on Wednesday by his Spokesman, *Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona*, the Emir described the late Sheikh Imam Banni as a towering figure in Islamic scholarship whose life was devoted to the propagation of Islam, moral rectitude, and community service.

The Emir, who received the news of the cleric’s demise with total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, said his death is a great loss not only to the Ilorin Emirate but to the entire Muslim Ummah.

He added: _”The late Imam Abubakar Banni was a man of deep piety, humility, and knowledge who used his pulpit to preach peace, unity, and godliness. Sheikh Banni’s contributions to Qur’anic exegesis, Arabic education, and religious counselling left an indelible mark on generations of scholars and followers across Ilorin and beyond.”_

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari however prayed that Almighty Allah grants him absolute forgiveness, accepts his good deeds, admits him into Al-Jannah Firdaus, and comforts the family, students, and the entire Muslim community he left behind.