President Bola 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, who died at the age of 92.
The President’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu described the late cleric as an exceptional religious leader whose life reflected courage, compassion and unwavering commitment to the sanctity of human life. He recalled that Imam Abubakar gained national and international recognition in 2018 after sheltering over 200 Christians in his home during a violent communal crisis in Plateau State.
According to the President, the Imam’s action at a time of heightened ethnic and religious tension demonstrated rare moral strength and genuine leadership.
Tinubu noted that rather than yield to fear or hatred, the cleric chose peace, love and humanity, even when his own life was at grave risk. He said the Imam’s conduct went beyond words and sermons, offering a powerful lesson on peaceful coexistence.
The President further observed that the late religious leader’s bravery earned him respect and honours within Nigeria and beyond, serving as a reminder of the role faith leaders can play in promoting unity.
Tinubu urged religious and community leaders across the country to draw inspiration from Imam Abubakar’s life by promoting tolerance, mutual respect and harmony among people of different beliefs.
He also prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased, asking God to grant him eternal rest and reward him for his selfless service to humanity.
Imam Abubakar’s death, the President said, was a great loss not only to Plateau State but to Nigeria as a whole.
