Abdullahi Abubakar, Muslim Cleric Who Sheltered 262, Dies

Abdullahi Abubakar, 92, the Muslim cleric celebrated worldwide for sheltering 262 Christians during the June 2018 sectarian attacks in Plateau State, has died after a brief illness, his son confirmed. He passed away on Thursday night at Plateau Specialist Hospital, Jos, 10 days after admission.

• Fast Facts
• Age: 92. Died after a brief illness at Plateau Specialist Hospital, Jos.
• Role: Chief Imam of Nghar village, Barkin Ladi LGA; also known as a herder and community leader.
• Heroic act: Opened his mosque and home to about 262 Christians during the June 23, 2018 attacks.
• Honours: Conferred Member of the Order of the Niger (OON); publicly commended by then-President Muhammadu Buhari.
• Family: Survived by 19 children (12 sons, 7 daughters); death confirmed by son Saleh Abubakar.

The Legacy

Imam Abdullahi Abubakar’s life is defined by three enduring achievements:

1. Extraordinary Courage (June 23, 2018) — When armed assailants attacked communities in Barkin Ladi, he sheltered roughly 262 Christians in his mosque and home, refusing to surrender them to attackers.
2. National Recognition — His act of humanity earned national and international acclaim, including the federal honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (OON).
3. Community Leadership — For decades he served as Chief Imam of Nghar, a herder and local peacemaker whose faith guided his protection of vulnerable people across faith lines.

Social Proof: Reactions and Tributes

News of his death prompted immediate tributes from political and community leaders. President Bola Tinubu and Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang were among those who mourned the loss, praising Abubakar’s courage and conscience. His son, Saleh Abubakar, confirmed the death to LEADERSHIP Weekend, saying his father died after a 10-day admission.

Imam Abubakar’s own words after the 2018 rescue remain emblematic of his legacy: “I did it because we are all human beings. My religion teaches me to protect lives, regardless of faith.”

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 — a sentiment repeated across local and international tributes.

He leaves behind 19 children and a reputation as a moral pillar whose single act of bravery saved hundreds and altered national discourse on interfaith solidarity.