Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the Chief Imam of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, has died, the Plateau State Government announced on Friday. The late cleric gained national and international recognition in June 2018 when armed attackers attacked communities in Barkin Ladi. During the crisis, he opened his mosque and home to shelter hundreds of Christians, reportedly saving nearly 300 lives, and refused to hand them over despite threats to his own life. His courageous actions earned him widespread acclaim, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Imam Abdullahi’s passing as “a monumental loss to his immediate family, his community, and Plateau State at large.” In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, the governor lauded the Imam’s life as one marked by “unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and protection of the vulnerable, particularly women and children.” The government joined the community in mourning the late cleric, honoring his legacy of courage and humanitarian service.