President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, who died at the age of 92.
The late cleric gained national and international recognition in 2018 after sheltering more than 200 Christians during the communal violence that engulfed parts of Plateau State, an action widely celebrated as a powerful demonstration of interfaith solidarity and human compassion.
In a statement was signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Imam Abubakar as an exceptional religious leader whose life exemplified faith, courage, and an unwavering belief in the sanctity of human life.
“At a time when tribal and religious sentiments threatened to overwhelm reason, Imam Abubakar stood firmly on the side of peace, benevolence, and conscience,” the President said.
He noted that, despite the grave risk to his own life, the cleric chose humanity over division, love over hatred, and inclusion over rejection, adding that the Imam’s actions conveyed the true essence of faith more eloquently than words.
The President recalled that Imam Abubakar’s uncommon bravery earned him both local and international honours in recognition of his commitment to peaceful coexistence among people of diverse beliefs.
President Tinubu urged religious and community leaders across the country to emulate and promote the values of tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence embodied by the late Imam.
He prayed that Almighty God grant Imam Abdullahi Abubakar eternal rest and reward him abundantly for his courage and good deeds.
