RismadarVoice Reporters
January 16, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed 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, a symbol of peaceful coexistence.
The revered cleric, who died at the age of 92, gained national and international recognition in 2018 after he risked his life to shelter more than 200 Christians during deadly communal violence in Plateau State.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said the late Imam’s life was a powerful testimony to faith, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the sanctity of human life.
According to the President, Imam Abubakar stood on the side of peace and humanity at a time when ethnic and religious tensions threatened to overwhelm reason.
“Mindful of the enormous risk to his own life, the noble cleric chose humanity over division, love over hatred, and embrace over rejection,” Tinubu said, adding that the Imam’s heroic actions spoke louder than sermons and delivered a timeless message to the world.
President Tinubu noted that the late cleric’s uncommon bravery earned him several local and international honours, which celebrated his dedication to peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
He urged religious and community leaders across the country to draw inspiration from Imam Abubakar’s life by promoting tolerance, mutual respect, and unity among Nigerians.
The President also prayed for the repose of the soul of the late cleric, asking God to reward him abundantly for his courage and selfless service to humanity.
Imam Abdullahi Abubakar is widely remembered for opening his home and mosque to Christians fleeing attacks during the 2018 crisis in Barkin Ladi, an act that drew widespread praise both within and outside Nigeria.
