Abdullahi Abubakar, the revered Muslim cleric celebrated for saving the lives of more than 300 Christians during the 2018 sectarian violence in Plateau State, has passed away at the age of 92.
Abubakar, who served as the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, reportedly died after a brief illness, marking the end of an extraordinary life defined by courage, compassion, and interfaith unity.
A Beacon of Interfaith Courage
The late Imam rose to global recognition on June 23, 2018, when armed attackers stormed several communities in Barkin Ladi, leaving dozens dead.
At great personal risk, Imam Abubakar opened his mosque and home, hiding over 300 Christians and refusing to surrender them to the assailants—despite direct threats to his life.
“I did it because we are all human beings. My religion teaches me to protect lives, regardless of faith,” he said in interviews after the incident.
His actions were widely hailed as a rare display of moral bravery and humanity amid violence.
National and International Honours
In recognition of his selfless act, the Nigerian government conferred on him the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), with former President Muhammadu Buhari personally commending him.
He was also named joint winner of LEADERSHIP Newspaper’s Person of the Year Award alongside billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote.
Internationally, the United States government honoured him with the International Religious Freedom Award in 2019, describing him as a global symbol of peace and interfaith harmony.
Plateau Mourns a Peace Icon
Reacting to his passing, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, described Imam Abubakar’s death as a “major loss” to his family, community, and the entire state.
“His leadership helped build bridges of forgiveness and peaceful coexistence across Plateau,” the governor said, urging residents to continue upholding the values of compassion, tolerance, and unity that the late cleric embodied.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Governor Mutfwang extended condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the people of Plateau State, praying for strength and comfort.
Imam Abdullahi Abubakar leaves behind a powerful legacy as a protector of lives, a defender of peace, and a timeless symbol of interfaith coexistence—a legacy that will be remembered far beyond Plateau State. 🕊️
