Abdullahi Abubakar, the Muslim cleric who gained national and international recognition for sheltering Christians during the 2018 attacks in Plateau State, has died at the age of 92. Abubakar, who was the chief imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, made headlines on June 23, 2018, when suspected bandits attacked communities in the area, killing scores of residents. During the violence, he opened his mosque and home to fleeing victims, hiding at least 300 Christians and refusing to hand them over to armed assailants until calm was restored.
His actions earned him widespread commendation, including a nomination for the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and recognition from the late President Muhammadu Buhari, while the United States awarded him the International Religious Freedom Award in 2019 for risking his life to save others. Reacting to his death, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Abubakar as a symbol of peace, unity and selfless leadership, noting that his commitment to interfaith harmony earned him global respect. “On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest condolences to the family and all those mourning the loss, praying that Almighty God grants them comfort and strength to bear the painful loss,” the statement read.