Writing By Teddy Daniel; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
Northern Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, describing him as a national moral icon whose life exemplified courage, faith and humanity.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its Chairman, Reverend Joseph John Hayab, Northern CAN said the death of the 92-year-old cleric marked the loss of a rare voice of conscience at a time Nigeria desperately needs symbols of unity and peace.
The association recalled that Imam Abubakar earned national and international recognition in 2018 when he risked his life to shelter and protect more than 200 Christians during violent communal attacks in parts of Plateau State.
Reverend Hayab noted that the late cleric’s actions went beyond words, describing him as a leader who lived out the true meaning of religion through compassion, sacrifice and respect for human life.
Quoting Proverbs chapter ten verse seven, Reverend Hayab said the memory of a good man endures, stressing that Imam Abubakar’s legacy would continue to inspire peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic divides.
The association said the late Imam’s life validated the belief that genuine faith promotes love, tolerance and the sanctity of human life, regardless of creed or background.
Reverend Hayab urged religious leaders across the country to emulate Imam Abubakar’s example by consistently preaching peace and restraint, especially in moments of tension and uncertainty.
It also called on Nigerians to embrace the values of unity and humanity demonstrated by the late cleric, noting that national healing and security can only be achieved through collective commitment to peaceful coexistence.
The association prayed for comfort for the family of the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar and extended condolences to the Muslim community in Plateau State and across the country.
