How obligatory is seeking forgiveness, and are exaggerated numbers, such as seeking forgiveness 10,000 times for a difficult matter or similar instances, considered bid'ah (reprehensible innovations)?

Seeking forgiveness (Istighfar) is asking Allah for forgiveness to cover sins in this world and not to be held accountable for them in the Hereafter. It is obligatory and highly encouraged. The meaning of "adhering to Istighfar" is to frequently and continuously engage in it. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to seek forgiveness and repent more than seventy times a day, and the Companions would count for him a hundred times in a single sitting: "My Lord, forgive me and accept my repentance, for indeed You are the Accepter of Repentance, the Most Merciful." A weak hadith states regarding the virtue of Istighfar that whoever adheres to it, Allah will make for him a way out of every difficulty, relief from every worry, and provide for him from where he does not expect. This is derived from Allah's saying: "And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out And will provide for him from where he does not expect." Islamic law encourages seeking forgiveness and does not stipulate a specific wording or number. Therefore, a Muslim should frequently engage in it without adhering to a specific number or considering it a Sunnah, as that falls under additive innovations.