By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar
Barkin Ladi, Plateau State — In June 2018, a frail but courageous 83-year-old Muslim cleric, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, became a symbol of unity and humanity when he shielded more than 300 Christians from armed attackers in Nghar village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
When gunmen suspected to be herdsmen stormed several villages in the area, killing dozens, residents fled in different directions. As chaos spread, many Christians sought refuge at the Imam’s mosque and residence. Without hesitation, Imam Abubakar opened his doors, leading women and children into his house and hiding the men inside the mosque.
Eyewitnesses said the Imam locked the mosque and refused to surrender anyone to the attackers, telling them that all those inside were Muslims. He reportedly told the gunmen they would have to kill him first before harming those under his protection.
For five days, the Imam and his Na’ibi, Malam Nuhu Abubakar, fed and cared for the displaced persons until calm returned to the area.
“I could not allow them to be killed before me. Life is sacred. Islam forbids the killing of innocent people, regardless of their faith,” Imam Abubakar later told journalists.
His heroic act drew national and international attention. Then-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo hosted him at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, describing him as “a hero whose courage and faith surpass political or religious divides.”
Former President Muhammadu Buhari also directed that the Imam be conferred with a national honour for his selfless service and demonstration of true humanity.
In 2019, the United States government presented Imam Abubakar with the International Religious Freedom Award, recognising his extraordinary commitment to interfaith coexistence and protection of human rights.
