…Tinubu, Mutfwang extolled the virtues of late Imam Abubakar
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has paid glowing tributes to a renowned and globally celebrated Islamic cleric, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, who sheltered 262 Christians who came under heavy attack in 2018 by armed Fulani herdsmen in the Barkin-Ladi local government area of Plateau State, north-central Nigeria.
The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement issued on Saturday, 16 January 2026, said the Imam’s actions stood as a rare example of moral bravery and selflessness at a time of grave danger that would forever be remembered.
He noted that the actions of the late Imam transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed the sanctity of human life above all else.
The statement reads in part, “The Christian Association of Nigeria pays glowing tribute to an extraordinary religious leader whose life and actions remain a profound testimony to courage, compassion, and our shared humanity.
“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, standing firmly on the side of humanity when it mattered most. 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,” CAN President stated.
The statement recalled that in recognition of the Cleric’s exceptional service to humanity, Imam Abdullahi was honoured with an award during the CAN’s 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,” Okoh emphasised.
CAN added that they believed that such courage as demonstrated by the late Imam deserves not only remembrance but amplification across the country.
The association called for continued public recognition of the late Imam’s sacrifice to honour his memory, including engagement with his family, so that his story would continue to inspire unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence across the country.
“As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived in service to God and humanity,” the statement noted.
The CAN President extended heartfelt condolences to his family, his community and all who were touched by his remarkable example.
The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria also expressed sorrow over the death of the Muslim cleric, describing him as a towering example of courage, faith and humanity.
The association said the death of the 90-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 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.
He recalled that 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.
According to him, the cleric’s intervention at the height of the violence helped save innocent lives and prevented further 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 stated.
The 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.
“The memory of the righteous is a blessing,” Hayab noted, stressing that Imam Abubakar’s name will 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.
It prayed for comfort for the family of the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar and extended condolences to the Muslim community in Plateau State and the nation at large.
The Plateau State Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State, also shared in the pain of the death of Imam Abubakar.
The state CAN Secretary, Rev. Simon Julius, described the late Imam as a rare figure whose courage and legacy transcended religious boundaries.
“In every religion, there are good and bad. For us, the late Imam will be remembered for his courage and for saving human lives,” says Rev. Julius.
He also sympathised with the Muslim Ummah over the loss and urged individuals to emulate the lifestyle of Imam Abdullahi for the betterment of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) Plateau State chapter also expressed shock at the passing away of the Islamic Cleric in the state, while submitting to the will of God.
In a statement signed by its secretary, Dr. Salim Musa Umar, JNI described the late Imam as an exceptional leader who demonstrated compassion during a trying period for his community.
“On behalf of the Chairman and Emir of Wase, JNI extends its condolences to his family, Plateau State, and Nigeria. No doubt, we have lost a rare gem. Humanity will never forget his sacrifices, and history will remember him positively.”
