Tinubu mourns Plateau Imam who sheltered Christians during 2018 crisis

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, describing him as a courageous servant of God whose life exemplified faith, humanity and peace.

Imam Abubakar, who died at the age of 92, gained national and international recognition in 2018 after he hid and protected more than 200 Christians during communal violence that engulfed parts of Plateau State.

In a statement issued on behalf of the President, Tinubu hailed the late cleric as an extraordinary religious leader who chose compassion over division at a time when ethnic and religious tensions threatened lives and communities.

“At such a time when tribal and religious tendencies seemed to overwhelm reason, Imam Abubakar stood firmly on the side of peace, benevolence and conscience,” the President said.

He noted that the Imam’s decision to shelter people of a different faith, despite the grave risk to his own life, underscored the true meaning of religious devotion and moral courage.

“Mindless of the enormous risk to his own life, the noble cleric chose humanity over division, love as opposed to hatred and embrace rather than rejection,” Tinubu stated, adding that the Imam’s actions spoke “louder than sermons” and sent a powerful message to the world.

President Tinubu also recalled that the late Imam’s bravery earned him both local and international recognition for promoting peaceful coexistence among people of diverse backgrounds.

The President urged religious and community leaders across the country to emulate Imam Abubakar’s example by preaching tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful living.

He concluded by praying for the repose of the Imam’s soul, asking God to grant him eternal rest and reward him for his courage and good deeds.

The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.