The Chief Imam of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, Sheik Abubakar Abdullahi, has passed away.
The late cleric became an international hero in June 2018, when He opened his mosque and home to shelter hundreds of Christians, saving almost 300 lives, and refused to hand them over to armed attackers, who stormed communities in Barkin Ladi, despite threats to his own life.
His act of bravery earned him widespread recognition, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government.
A statement signed on Friday by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Gyang Bere, mourned the late Islamic scholar, describing his death as a monumental loss to his family, community, and State at large.
Governor Mutfwang observed that the loss comes at a time when the state greatly needed the guidance, wisdom, and unifying presence of Imam Abdullahi.
According to the statement, the governor said the Imam’s life was distinguished by unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and protection of the vulnerable, particularly women and children.
He however urged the immediate family and the entire community to take solace in the knowledge that the late Imam lived a life of faith, compassion, and fairness, leaving behind a legacy of service and peaceful coexistence.
