Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, who died at the age of 92.
The revered cleric gained national and international acclaim in 2018 after sheltering more than 200 Christians during communal violence, an act of courage that defined his legacy of peace and humanity.
This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.
Tinubu described Abubakar as an extraordinary religious leader whose life exemplified faith, courage, and a deep reverence 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.
“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,” the President said.
He said the Imam’s actions embodied the true essence of faith and delivered a powerful message beyond sermons.
The President noted that the cleric’s uncommon bravery earned him local and international honours celebrating peaceful coexistence.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He prayed that God grant the late Imam eternal rest and reward him for his courage and good deeds.