Plateau State has lost a respected symbol of peace and religious tolerance following the death of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The cleric, who became widely known for sheltering hundreds of Christians during the 2018 communal violence in Plateau, died on Thursday night at the Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos. He was 90 years old.
His son, Saleh Abubakar, confirmed the death on Friday, explaining that the imam passed away ten days after being admitted to the hospital.
According to the family, Imam Abubakar had been battling heart-related health challenges and had been going in and out of medical care before his condition worsened.
Imam Abubakar earned national and international admiration in June 2018 when violent, faith-based clashes swept across 10 villages in Barkin Ladi. At the height of the crisis, he sheltered 262 Christians in his mosque and residence, protecting them until the violence subsided.
His rare act of courage and humanity saved many lives and stood as a powerful example of interfaith coexistence in a deeply divided moment.
In recognition of his selfless actions, the United States Department of State honoured him with the International Religious Freedom Award in 2019.
The late imam is survived by 19 children, made up of 12 sons and seven daughters. He will be laid to rest on Friday in his hometown of Nghar village after the Juma’at prayers.
