Abdullahi Abubakar, the respected Muslim cleric celebrated for protecting Christians during the 2018 communal attacks in Plateau State, has passed away at the age of 92.
Abubakar, the chief imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, earned widespread admiration for opening his mosque and home to hundreds of people fleeing violence by armed attackers.
During the deadly crisis of June 23, 2018, he sheltered at least 300 Christians and refused to hand them over to assailants seeking to harm them.
His courageous actions not only saved many lives but also made him a symbol of interfaith solidarity in a region long troubled by communal strife.
In recognition of his bravery, Abubakar was nominated for the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and personally commended by the late President Muhammadu Buhari.
He also received the International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government in 2019.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang mourned the cleric as a “beacon of peace, unity and selfless leadership,” noting that his death leaves a significant void in the community.
The governor urged residents to continue embracing the values of compassion and unity that Abubakar stood for.
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