PLATEAU HERO IMAM DIES AT 92: Cleric who sheltered 300 Christians during 2018 killings passes on

By Johnson Arua

Abdullahi Abubakar, the revered Muslim cleric who earned widespread acclaim for protecting Christians during the 2018 Plateau State killings, has died at the age of 92.

Family sources disclosed that Abubakar, who was the chief imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, passed away on Monday, marking the end of a life defined by uncommon courage, compassion and interfaith harmony.

The late imam rose to national and international prominence during the violent attacks that rocked parts of Plateau State in 2018, when armed assailants targeted several communities, forcing residents to flee for safety.

At the height of the crisis, Abubakar opened the doors of his mosque and personal residence, sheltering over 300 Christians who were escaping the violence that engulfed surrounding villages.

Eyewitness accounts at the time revealed that the imam stood firmly between the attackers and those seeking refuge, reportedly confronting the armed men and insisting that no harm would come to those under his protection.

His actions were widely hailed as a rare demonstration of moral courage and religious tolerance in the face of sectarian violence, earning him praise from civil society groups, religious leaders and human rights organisations.

Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Abubakar’s bravery attracted global attention, with international media highlighting his role as a symbol of peaceful coexistence and the power of humanity above religious differences.

Despite the accolades that followed, the cleric was described by those close to him as humble and deeply committed to the ideals of peace, often downplaying his actions as a simple religious duty.

Community leaders in Barkin Ladi have described his death as a major loss, noting that he played a stabilising role in fostering dialogue and unity among different faith groups in the area.

As tributes continue to pour in, many Nigerians say Abdullahi Abubakar’s legacy will endure as a reminder that acts of compassion and bravery can shine even in the darkest moments of conflict.