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Nigeria is mourning the passing of a revered religious leader, Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, whose extraordinary courage during one of Plateau State’s darkest moments earned him global respect and admiration. The respected cleric, who famously sheltered 262 Christians during violent communal clashes in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, has died at the age of 90.
The death of the Imam of Nghar village was confirmed by his son, Saleh Abubakar, who spoke with Daily Trust on Friday. According to him, the cleric passed away on Thursday night at the Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos after battling health complications linked to a heart condition.
“He was initially diagnosed with a heart problem. He would go for check-ups and return home, but his health had not been stable since the diagnosis,” Saleh said, explaining that his father had been hospitalized for about ten days before his passing.
Imam Abdullahi leaves behind a large family, survived by 19 children — 12 sons and seven daughters — as well as countless admirers who viewed him as a symbol of peace, compassion, and interfaith harmony.
The late imam rose to international prominence in June 2018 when deadly, faith-based violence engulfed at least 10 villages in Barkin Ladi. As attacks intensified and panic spread, Imam Abdullahi took a stand that would define his legacy. He opened the doors of his mosque and his personal residence, hiding 262 Christians and protecting them from harm until calm was eventually restored.
At a time when fear and suspicion dominated the region, his actions demonstrated rare moral courage and deep humanity, transcending religious and ethnic divides. His bravery did not go unnoticed. In 2019, the United States Department of State honoured him with the International Religious Freedom Award, recognizing his commitment to protecting lives regardless of faith.
Imam Abdullahi will be laid to rest on Friday after the Juma’at prayer in his hometown of Nghar village. As tributes continue to pour in, many Nigerians and global observers are reflecting on a life that proved that even in moments of extreme violence, compassion can prevail.
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