Abdullahi Abubakar, the Muslim cleric who gained international recognition for protecting hundreds of Christians during the 2018 sectarian violence in Plateau State, has died at the age of 92.
Abubakar, who served as Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, died after a brief illness, according to reports.
The cleric became a global symbol of interfaith harmony following his heroic actions on June 23, 2018, when armed attackers raided several communities in Barkin Ladi, killing dozens. During the assault, Abubakar sheltered at least 300 Christians in his mosque and home, refusing to surrender them to the attackers despite threats to his life.
“I did it because we are all human beings. My religion teaches me to protect lives, regardless of faith,” he said in interviews following the incident.
His courageous act earned widespread recognition. The Federal Government honored him with the national title of Member of the Order of the Niger, while former President Muhammadu Buhari personally commended his bravery. LEADERSHIP Media Group also named him joint winner of its Person of the Year Award alongside Aliko Dangote.
In 2019, the United States government presented Abdullahi Abubakar with the International Religious Freedom Award, describing him as a champion of peace and interfaith unity.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State mourned Abubakar’s passing, calling him a symbol of peace, unity, and selfless leadership.
