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

The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, describing him as a towering example of courage, faith and humanity.

The association said the death of the 92-year-old cleric marked the loss of a moral beacon whose actions resonated beyond religious and ethnic boundaries at a critical moment in Nigeria’s history.

The late cleric became nationally and internationally known in June 2018, when armed attackers stormed communities in Barkin Ladi.

He opened his mosque and home to shelter hundreds of Christians, reportedly saving almost 300 lives, and refused to hand them over despite threats to his own life.

His act of bravery earned him widespread recognition, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph Hayab, said the late Imam’s life was a powerful testimony that true religion upholds the sanctity of human life.

According to him, the cleric’s intervention at the height of the violence helped to save innocent lives and prevented further escalation of bloodshed in the troubled community.

“He stood firm in the face of danger and chose humanity over hatred, peace over violence, and love over fear,” Hayab said.

The Northern CAN chairman described the late Imam as a man whose faith translated into courageous action, stressing that leadership is best demonstrated through sacrifice and compassion.

“He was a moral compass in one of Nigeria’s darkest moments. His actions spoke louder than sermons and reminded us all of our shared humanity,” Hayab added.

Quoting Proverbs 10:7, the association said, “The memory of the righteous is a blessing,” noting that Imam Abubakar’s name would not be forgotten.

Northern CAN stated that the late cleric’s legacy would continue to inspire generations and serve as a reference point for peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic lines.

Hayab stressed that Imam Abubakar’s life validated the belief that genuine religion promotes mutual respect, tolerance and love, irrespective of differences in belief or background.

He urged religious leaders across the country to draw lessons from the late Imam by consistently preaching peace, restraint and compassion, particularly during times of tension and uncertainty.

“The example he set is a reminder that our words must be matched with actions that protect lives and promote harmony,” Hayab said.

The association also called on Nigerians to uphold the values of unity and humanity demonstrated by the late cleric, insisting that national healing and security could only be achieved through collective commitment to peaceful coexistence.

The association prayed for comfort for the family of the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar and extended its condolences to the Muslim community in Plateau State and the nation at large.