CAN Mourns Plateau Imam Who Sheltered Over 200 Christians During Deadly Attack

CAN Mourns Plateau Imam Who Sheltered Over 200 Christians During Deadly Attack

The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (Northern CAN) has mourned the death of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the revered Plateau State imam who famously sheltered over 200 Christians during the 2018 deadly attacks in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

Imam Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Nghar Village, passed away at the age of 92, drawing tributes from religious bodies, political leaders and civil society groups across Nigeria. He rose to national prominence after risking his life to protect Christians fleeing violent attacks by armed assailants, hiding them in his mosque and personal residence when several Plateau communities came under siege.

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In a condolence message, Northern CAN described the late cleric as a symbol of interfaith harmony, courage and humanity, noting that his actions saved hundreds of lives and strengthened peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in the North.

The association said Imam Abubakar’s legacy remains a powerful reminder that religion should be a force for peace rather than division, urging faith leaders to emulate his example of tolerance and compassion.

Beyond Northern CAN, tributes have continued to pour in from across the country. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and several northern governors all hailed the cleric as a hero whose selfless actions stood against hatred and violence.

Imam Abubakar had received both national and international recognition for his bravery, including honours for promoting religious tolerance and peacebuilding. Many Nigerians say his life story remains a shining example of unity in the face of sectarian violence.

CAN Mourns Plateau Imam Who Sheltered Over 200 Christians During Deadly Attack