By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The Plateau State government has mourned the death of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the Chief Imam of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati in Barkin Ladi, who sheltered over 200 Christians fleeing from armed attackers in June 2018.
Abubakar died on Friday, January 16, at the age of 92.
The late Muslim cleric became nationally and internationally recognised for opening his mosque and home to shelter hundreds of Christians during attacks in communities in Barkin Ladi, and refusing to hand them over to the attackers despite threats to his own life.
His act of bravery earned him widespread recognition, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Plateau State Governor, Gyang Bere, on Friday, Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Imam Abdullahi’s death as “a monumental loss to his immediate family, his community, and Plateau State at large.”
The statement added that the governor said the Imam’s life was distinguished by “unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and protection of the vulnerable, particularly women and children.”
“Governor Mutfwang observed that the loss comes at a time when the state greatly needed the guidance, wisdom, and unifying presence of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi.
“He urged the immediate family and the entire community to take solace in the knowledge that the late Imam lived a life of faith, compassion, and fairness, leaving behind a legacy of service and peaceful coexistence,” the statement read.
Some Nigerians also took to various social media platforms to mourn the Imam’s death and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
On X (formerly Twitter), @abdvl_gubuchy wrote, “Humanity at its best. May Allah bless his soul and grant him Jannah. Aamin.”
@MyPharmCare tweeted, “Amazing act. God first, humanity next, before religion.”
@peacememso wrote, “He is a great man. What will dey remember you for when you go?”
