Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, who gained national and international recognition for sheltering Christians during the 2018 Plateau attacks, is dead.
Abubakar passed away after battling with a heart condition at Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos.
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The late imam made headlines when he opened his mosque and home to over 300 Christians fleeing violence by armed men during the crisis.
The incident occurred on June 23, 2018, when suspected bandits attacked communities across Barkin Ladi, killing scores of residents.
His selfless action earned him accolades at home and abroad, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government.
He was nominated for the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) by the federal government and received a handshake from the late President Muhammadu Buhari for his bravery.
In the aftermath of the incident, Abubakar stated that his actions were rooted in a fundamental commitment to preserving life, irrespective of religious affiliation. He noted that he acted out of compassion and respect for humanity.
His death marks the passing of a figure many saw as a symbol of interfaith solidarity in a region long troubled by communal violence.
