The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has expressed profound grief over the death of celebrated Ilorin Waka musician, Alhaja Ruqayyat Batimoluwasi, describing her passing as a great loss to the cultural and artistic heritage of the Ilorin Emirate.

In a condolence message issued on Saturday by his spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, the Emir paid glowing tribute to the late singer, whom he described as one of the foremost custodians of Ilorin's rich cultural traditions and a gifted performer who used Waka music to promote moral values, Islamic teachings and the unique identity of the Emirate.

According to the monarch, Alhaja Batimoluwasi devoted her life to preserving and projecting the cultural heritage of Ilorin through her melodious performances, inspiring generations with songs that entertained, educated and promoted societal virtues.

"The late Alhaja Ruqayyat Batimoluwasi was a pride of Ilorin Emirate and a worthy cultural ambassador. She dedicated her life to preserving our cherished traditions and uplifting society through meaningful and educative Waka songs. Her remarkable voice, exemplary character and invaluable contributions to our cultural heritage will remain unforgettable," the Emir said.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari noted that the deceased occupied a special place in the history of Waka music in Kwara State and beyond, adding that her legacy would continue to inspire upcoming artistes and lovers of indigenous music.

The Emir extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Waka music community, friends, admirers and the entire people of Ilorin Emirate over what he described as an irreparable loss.

He prayed Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive the late singer's shortcomings, accept her good deeds as acts of Ibadah, grant her eternal rest in Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and comfort her family with the strength and patience to bear the painful loss.

The late Alhaja Ruqayyat Batimoluwasi was widely respected for her outstanding contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Waka music, a genre deeply rooted in Yoruba-Islamic culture and renowned for conveying messages of faith, morality and communal values. Her death has continued to attract tributes from traditional rulers, religious leaders, cultural organisations and admirers across Kwara State and beyond.