Abdullahi Abubakar, the revered Muslim cleric who gained national and international recognition for hiding and protecting more than 300 Christians during the 2018 Plateau State killings, has died at the age of 92. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Abubakar, who served as the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, reportedly passed away after a brief illness.
The late cleric rose to global prominence on June 23, 2018, when armed attackers invaded several communities in Barkin Ladi, killing dozens in a wave of sectarian violence.
Amid the chaos and bloodshed, Imam Abubakar risked his own life by sheltering over 300 Christians inside his mosque and private residence, refusing to surrender them to the attackers despite direct threats.
Explaining his actions afterward, he said:
“I did it because we are all human beings. My religion teaches me to protect lives, regardless of faith.”
His courageous stance was widely praised as a rare and powerful demonstration of humanity, religious tolerance, and moral leadership during one of Plateau State’s darkest moments.
In recognition of his bravery, the Federal Government of Nigeria conferred on him the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON).
Former President Muhammadu Buhari personally commended Abubakar for his selfless actions.
He was also named joint winner of the LEADERSHIP Media Group’s Person of the Year Award, alongside Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.
On the global stage, the United States government honoured him with the International Religious Freedom Award in 2019, describing him as a champion of peace and interfaith harmony.
Reacting to his passing, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, described Abubakar’s death as a major loss to Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.
According to the governor, the late Imam was a symbol of peace, unity, and selfless leadership, whose actions helped heal deep divisions.
“His leadership helped build bridges of forgiveness and peaceful coexistence across Plateau,” Mutfwang said in a statement.
The governor urged residents to continue to uphold the values of compassion, tolerance, and unity which the cleric embodied.
Governor Mutfwang also extended condolences to the family of the late Imam on behalf of the Plateau State Government and people, praying for comfort and strength for those he left behind.
Imam Abdullahi Abubakar leaves behind a lasting legacy as a fearless protector of human life and a global symbol of interfaith courage, whose actions will continue to inspire generations in Nigeria and beyond.