The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Northern Wing, has expressed profound 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 rare symbol of courage, faith, and selfless humanity.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Chairman of Northern CAN, Reverend Joseph John Hayab, the association recalled that Imam Abubakar earned national and international respect in 2018 when he risked his life to shelter more than 200 Christians during the violent communal crisis that engulfed parts of Plateau State.
“The passing of the 92-year-old cleric marks the loss of a moral compass whose actions spoke louder than words at one of Nigeria’s darkest moments,” Rev. Hayab said.
The association noted that Imam Abubakar’s conduct exemplified the true essence of faith and leadership, stressing that his legacy would remain a reference point for peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic lines.
The association quoted Proverbs 10:7, stating that “the memory of a good man will not be forgotten,” and that Imam Abubakar’s name would be remembered and inspire generations long after his death.
The Northern Christian leader stressed that the late Imam’s actions validated the belief that genuine religion promotes the sanctity of human life, mutual respect, and love for one another, irrespective of creed or background.
During the 2018 crisis in Plateau State, Imam Abubakar became a symbol of interfaith harmony when he opened his home and mosque to provide sanctuary for Christians fleeing violence. His courageous act of protecting members of another faith community at great personal risk garnered widespread admiration and demonstrated the power of moral leadership in times of crisis.
The association urged religious leaders across the country to draw lessons from Imam Abubakar’s life by consistently preaching peace, tolerance, and compassion, particularly in times of tension and uncertainty.
It further called on Nigerians to uphold the values of unity and humanity demonstrated by the late Imam, stressing that national healing and security could only be achieved through collective commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Northern CAN prayed for comfort for the family of the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar and extended condolences to the Muslim community in Plateau State and the nation at large.
The death of Imam Abubakar represents the loss of a bridge-builder at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with religious and ethnic tensions in various parts of the country. His example of prioritising human life over sectarian divisions offers a powerful model for conflict resolution and community healing.
Religious leaders and civil society organisations have repeatedly cited Imam Abubakar’s 2018 act of heroism as proof that interfaith cooperation and mutual protection are possible even under the most difficult circumstances. His legacy challenges both Christian and Muslim leaders to demonstrate similar courage and compassion in their communities.
This report was produced by the editorial team at The Gazette News | Latest News In Nigeria & the World in line with our commitment to accuracy, fairness, and responsible journalism. Information in this article is based on verified sources available at the time of publication. The Gazette News | Latest News In Nigeria & the World may update the story as new facts emerge or additional context becomes available.
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