Plateau peace hero Imam who saved hundreds of Christians dies

Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the Chief Imam of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, has died, sparking an outpouring of tributes across Nigeria and beyond.

The revered cleric rose to national and international prominence in June 2018 after armed attackers invaded communities in Barkin Ladi. In a rare display of courage and humanity, Imam Abdullahi opened his mosque and personal residence to shelter hundreds of fleeing Christians, reportedly saving nearly 300 lives. He stood his ground and refused to hand them over despite threats to his own life.

His selfless actions earned him global recognition, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award presented by the United States government.

The Plateau State Government confirmed his death in a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere. Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the passing of the cleric as “a monumental loss to his immediate family, his community, and Plateau State at large.”

According to the governor, Imam Abdullahi’s life was marked by an “unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and the protection of the vulnerable, especially women and children.” He noted that the Imam’s death came at a time when the state urgently needed his wisdom, guidance, and unifying presence.

The governor urged the family and community to take comfort in the legacy the late Imam left behind, describing him as a man of faith, compassion, fairness, and peaceful coexistence.

It was gathered that Imam Abdullahi died ten days after being admitted to the hospital. Reports indicate he had been battling a heart-related illness and had been in and out of medical care since his diagnosis, with his health remaining unstable in recent times.