President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing him as a courageous servant of God and a symbol of true faith and humanity.
Imam Abubakar, who died at the age of 92, rose to national and international prominence in 2018 after he sheltered and protected over 200 Christians during a wave of communal violence that engulfed parts of Plateau State.
In a statement issued signed by Mr Bayo Onanuga the Special Adviserto the President on Informationand Strategy, President Tinubu said the late cleric’s life was a powerful testament to courage, compassion and respect for the sanctity of human life.
“At such a time when tribal and religious tendencies seemed to overwhelm reason, Imam Abubakar stood firmly on the side of peace, benevolence and conscience,” the President remarked.
“Mindless of the enormous risk to his own life, the noble cleric chose humanity over division, love as opposed to hatred and embrace rather than rejection. His heroic feat underlines the essence of true faith, resonating louder than sermons in a salient message to the world at large. Imam Abubakar is a worthy example of a better human we should all aspire to be,” President Tinubu said.
The President noted that the late Imam’s extraordinary act of bravery earned him both local and international recognition for promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths and backgrounds.
“His act of uncommon bravery did not go unnoticed, as he received local and international honours that celebrated his commitment to coexistence among people with diverse orientations,” he said.
President Tinubu also called on religious and community leaders across the country to emulate the virtues exemplified by the late cleric.
“I urge religious and community leaders to imbibe and preach the spirit of tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful togetherness as expounded in the life of Imam Abubakar,” the President added.
He concluded by praying for the repose of the late Imam’s soul, saying, “May the Almighty grant Imam Abubakar eternal rest and reward him for his good deeds and courage.”
