Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, gained national and global recognition after his extraordinary act of courage and humanity during violent attacks in June 2018.
When armed attackers descended on communities in Barkin Ladi on June 23, 2018, killing many residents, the cleric opened the doors of his mosque and home to people fleeing the violence. In a powerful display of interfaith solidarity, he sheltered at least 262 Christians, refusing to surrender them to those seeking to harm them.
His actions ensured the safety of hundreds until calm was restored, earning him widespread admiration across religious and ethnic lines.
Abubakar later explained that his decision was guided by compassion and the belief that protecting human life transcends religion.
The late cleric’s bravery attracted international recognition. In 2019, he received the United States’ International Religious Freedom Award, with the US Department of State praising his willingness to risk his life to save others.
He was also nominated for the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and was personally acknowledged by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Reacting to his passing, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Abubakar as a symbol of peace, unity, and selfless leadership. The governor noted that the cleric’s legacy of interfaith harmony helped foster forgiveness and peaceful coexistence in a region often affected by communal tensions.
He added that Abubakar’s death is a great loss to his family, community, and Plateau State as a whole, urging residents to continue upholding the values of love, compassion, and unity that defined the cleric’s life.
Chief Imam Abdullahi Abubakar is remembered as a rare voice of conscience and a powerful example of humanity in the face of hatred.