The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, have paid tributes to Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the Chief Imam of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati in Barikin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, who saved about 300 Christians from being massacred in 2018.
Abdullahi died at the age of 92.
Speaker Abbas described the late Chief Imam, who came to the limelight when armed attackers stormed communities in Barikin Ladi, and he opened his mosque and home to shelter an estimated 300 Christians, and refused to hand them over to the attackers despite threats to his own life, as a great ambassador of Islam.
His act of bravery earned him the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award from the Government of the United States, among other recognitions around the world and a national honour by the Nigerian government
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Speaker Abbas, in his condolence message, said the act of kindness, love, and selflessness exhibited by Imam Abdullahi exemplified the tenets of Islam and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on mutual respect and tolerance.
The Speaker said Imam Abdullahi was not only a great ambassador of Islam but also a true Nigerian whose love for his compatriots transcended tribe and religion.
While commiserating with the family of the deceased Islamic cleric, Speaker Abbas extended his condolences to Muslims and Christians who believe in love, unity, and selflessness.
The Speaker prayed to Allah (SWT) to grant Imam Abdullahi a place in Jannatul Firdausi.
CAN mourns Imam
The leadership of CAN on Saturday said the late cleric would forever be remembered.
CAN commended the bravery of the late Abdullahi.
While paying tribute to whom it described as an extraordinary religious leader whose life and actions remain a profound testimony to courage, compassion, and our shared humanity, CAN said his death was painful.
In a statement issued by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, “The late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi will forever be remembered for his rare moral bravery and selflessness at a time of grave danger. By choosing to protect innocent lives at great personal risk, he saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018.
“His actions transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed that the sanctity of human life is sacred above all else.
“This singular act of heroism did more than save lives. It reinforced hope, strengthened interfaith harmony, and reminded our nation that peace is possible when conscience, love, and faith guide our actions. In a world often divided by suspicion and hatred, the Imam stood as a bridge-builder and a living symbol of what true religion represents.
“It was in recognition of this exceptional service to humanity that CAN honoured him with an award during its Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021. While plaques may fade with time, his legacy will endure as a shining example for religious leaders, communities, and generations to come.
“CAN believes that such courage deserves not only remembrance but amplification. We therefore call for continued honour to his memory, including engagement with his family and broad public recognition of his noble sacrifice, so that his story may inspire unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence across our nation.
“As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived in service to God and humanity. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his community, and all who were touched by his remarkable example. May his legacy continue to speak where words fall short”.
