By Peter Omopo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, who gained national and international recognition for sheltering about 300 Christians during the 2018 communal violence in the state.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed deep sorrow over the cleric’s death, describing him as an exceptional religious leader whose life embodied faith, courage and an unwavering respect for the sanctity of human life.
Tinubu recalled that at a time when ethnic and religious tensions threatened to overwhelm reason, Imam Abubakar chose peace and humanity over division, placing himself at great personal risk to protect others.
“Mindful of the enormous danger to his own life, the noble cleric chose humanity over division, love over hatred and embrace rather than rejection,” the President said, adding that the Imam’s actions offered a powerful example of true faith and moral leadership.
The President noted that the late cleric’s bravery earned him both local and international recognition for promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different religious and ethnic backgrounds.
He urged religious and community leaders across the country to draw inspiration from Imam Abubakar’s life by promoting tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful living.
President Tinubu concluded by praying for the repose of the Imam’s soul, asking God to grant him eternal rest and reward him for his courage and selfless service to humanity.
