The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the courageous Chief Imam of Nghar village in Plateau State, who heroically saved 262 Christians during violent communal clashes in June 2018.
Imam Abubakar, who passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 90 (some reports say 92) following a brief illness involving heart complications, became a national and international symbol of interfaith solidarity and humanity.
In a statement released on Saturday, January 17, 2026, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh described the late Imam as a "rare symbol of courage and compassion" whose selfless actions at great personal risk prevented potential mass casualties and restored hope in a time of deep division.
The Imam had sheltered and protected predominantly Birom Christians, mostly women, children, and the elderly in his mosque and home while refusing demands from attackers to hand them over.
His bravery earned him widespread recognition, including the U.S. International Religious Freedom Award in 2019 and a national honour in 2022.
CAN recalled that it had previously honoured him with a special award during its Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021, noting that his life stood as a powerful example of what true religion represents: love, conscience, and the sanctity of human life.
The association stated:“By his courageous intervention, he did not only save lives; he restored hope, strengthened interfaith harmony and reminded our nation that peace is achievable when conscience, love and faith guide our actions.”
CAN called on Nigerians, religious leaders, and authorities to continue honouring his legacy by supporting his family and emulating his example of tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
The Imam’s passing has drawn tributes from prominent figures, including President Bola Tinubu, who described him as an "extraordinary religious leader" whose life embodied faith, courage, and reverence for human life.
Imam Abubakar Abdullahi’s extraordinary act of bravery remains a lasting beacon of unity and shared humanity in Nigeria.May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
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