Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the Muslim cleric celebrated worldwide for his courage in sheltering Christians during the 2018 Plateau attacks, has died at the age of 90.
Until his passing, Abubakar was the Chief Imam of Nghar Village in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
His death has been described as a monumental loss to the state and the nation, with tributes pouring in to honour his remarkable life of service and humanity.
The late Imam came into national and international prominence in June 2018 when violence broke out in Barkin Ladi.
Armed men attacked communities, forcing hundreds of residents to flee.
In the midst of the chaos, Imam Abubakar opened the doors of his mosque and his home to Christians who were being hunted by the attackers.
He sheltered more than 200 people, refusing to hand them over despite threats from the gunmen.
His bravery and selflessness prevented what could have been a massacre and became a symbol of interfaith solidarity in Nigeria.
Reacting to his death, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed profound sorrow, describing the Imam’s passing as a great loss to Plateau State.
Gov Mutfwang Mourns
In a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor hailed the cleric’s legacy of courage and humanity, noting his remarkable role in shielding Christians during periods of heightened tension.
Governor Mutfwang described Imam Abubakar as a man of purpose whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to peace, unity and the protection of the vulnerable, particularly women and children.
He added that the cleric’s leadership in promoting interfaith harmony earned him both national and international recognition.
The governor further noted that the Imam dedicated his life to the advancement and well-being of his people, and that his sudden passing leaves a significant void in Yelwa, Gindin Akwati, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
He stressed that the loss comes at a time when Plateau State greatly needed the Imam’s guidance and unifying presence, urging his family and community to take solace in the enduring legacy of faith, compassion and fairness he exemplified.
While commiserating with the immediate family and the Muslim community, the governor prayed for God to grant comfort and strength to all those mourning the revered leader.
In 2019, the United States honoured him with the International Religious Freedom Award
Imam Abubakar’s heroic act earned him accolades at home and abroad. He was nominated for the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) by the Federal Government and received a handshake from then-President Muhammadu Buhari in recognition of his bravery.
In 2019, the United States honoured him with the International Religious Freedom Award, with the Department of State commending his courage in risking his life to save members of another religious community.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Nigeria’s interfaith history.
Imam Abdullahi Abubakar will be remembered not only for his courage during the Plateau crisis but also for his lifelong dedication to peace, unity and the protection of the vulnerable.
His legacy stands as a beacon of compassion and fairness, inspiring future generations to embrace peaceful coexistence and interfaith understanding.
