The Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Abubakar Abdullahi, has passed away at the age of 90.
The late cleric became widely known for his courageous actions in June 2018, during violent faith-based communal clashes that affected about 10 villages in Barkin Ladi. At the height of the attacks, he sheltered 262 Christians inside a mosque and his personal residence, keeping them safe until the violence subsided and saving them.
His actions earned him national and international recognition. Among the honours he received was the International Religious Freedom Award presented by the United States Department of State in 2019, in recognition of his bravery and commitment to peace and also, an award from Vanguard Newspaper.

Confirming his death, one of his sons, Saleh Abubakar, said the cleric died on Thursday night at the Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding his passing, his son disclosed that the imam had been battling a heart-related illness and had been receiving medical care before his condition worsened. Abubakar said, “He died ten days after he was admitted. He was initially diagnosed with a heart problem. He’d go for check-ups and return. His health hadn’t been stable since the heart disease diagnosis.”
The respected cleric is survived by 19 children, made up of 12 boys and seven girls. He was expected to be laid to rest yesterday in Nghar village, following the Jumma’at Prayer.
