A Global Icon of Peace: Prof. Pantami Mourns Late Plateau Imam Who Sheltered 200 Christians
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Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has paid a glowing tribute to the late Chief Imam of Nghar Village, Sheikh Abdullahi Abubakar, who passed away at the age of 92 following a brief illness.
Sheikh Abubakar, a globally recognized humanitarian, gained international acclaim in June 2018 when he risked his life to save over 200 Christians during violent communal clashes in the Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State. The cleric sheltered the fleeing residents inside his home and mosque, standing firmly against armed assailants to prevent a massacre.
“Islam in its Purest Form”
In a moving condolence statement, Prof. Pantami described the late Imam as a “moral compass” and a living embodiment of Islamic teachings.
“What Sheikh Abdullahi Abubakar did at that time represented Islam in its purest form,” Pantami stated. “The Qur’an teaches that saving one life is akin to saving all of humanity. The late Imam lived these teachings through his actions when he saved his neighbors who would otherwise have been nefariously slaughtered.”
Pantami emphasized that at a time when ethnic and religious tensions threatened to overwhelm reason, the Sheikh chose “compassion over hatred and conscience over cowardice,” proving that the sanctity of human life transcends all earthly boundaries.
A Legacy of Courage and Interfaith Harmony
The late Sheikh’s heroism has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. His actions earned him numerous honors, including the International Religious Freedom Award from the U.S. State Department and various national recognitions.
“History will remember Sheikh Abdullahi Abubakar as a global symbol of peace, interfaith harmony, and moral courage,” Pantami added. “His legacy will continue to inspire generations within and beyond Nigeria.”
Condolences and Final Rites
Extending his heartfelt sympathies to the people of Barkin Ladi and Plateau State, Prof. Pantami prayed for the repose of the cleric’s soul and for strength for the bereaved family.
The late Sheikh was laid to rest in Nghar village following Juma’at prayers. He is survived by a large family and a nation that remembers him as a “towering example of bravery” in one of its darkest hours.
By PRNigeria
