Brave Plateau Imam, Abdullahi Abubakar, who sheltered 300 Christians in 2018 dies at 92

Abdullahi Abubakar, the Muslim cleric widely celebrated for sheltering Christians during the 2018 attacks in Plateau State, has died at the age of 92.

Abubakar, the chief imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, gained national and international recognition when he opened his mosque and home to at least 300 Christians fleeing violence by armed assailants. He refused to hand them over to attackers during the deadly attacks that swept through Barkin Ladi on June 23, 2018, which claimed the lives of numerous residents.

The cleric’s selfless actions earned him numerous accolades. He was nominated for the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) by the federal government and received a personal handshake from the late President Muhammadu Buhari. In 2019, he was also awarded the International Religious Freedom Award by the United States Department of State, which cited his bravery in risking his life to save others.

In interviews following the 2018 crisis, Abubakar said his actions were motivated by compassion and respect for humanity, emphasizing that saving lives transcended religion.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State described the late cleric as a symbol of peace, unity, and selfless leadership. In a condolence message, the governor praised Abubakar’s commitment to interfaith harmony, noting that his leadership helped build bridges of forgiveness and peaceful coexistence in a region long troubled by communal violence.

“His passing is a major loss to his family, community, and the state,” the governor said, urging residents to uphold the values of compassion and unity that the late imam represented. “On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, we extend our deepest condolences and pray for strength and comfort for all mourning this loss.”

Abubakar’s death marks the passing of a figure many regarded as a living symbol of courage and interfaith solidarity in Plateau State, leaving behind a legacy of humanity and moral leadership.