Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the Chief Imam of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati, in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, has passed away.

The late cleric rose to national and international prominence in June 2018 after armed attackers invaded communities in Barkin Ladi. During the violence, Imam Abdullahi opened his mosque and personal residence to hundreds of Christians seeking refuge, reportedly saving nearly 300 lives.

Despite threats to his own life, he refused to hand over those he sheltered, a courageous act that drew widespread admiration across religious and ethnic divides. His bravery earned him several honours, including the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award presented by the United States government.

The Plateau State Government confirmed his death in a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Imam Abdullahi’s passing as “a monumental loss to his immediate family, his community, and Plateau State at large.”

According to the governor, the late Imam’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and the protection of the vulnerable, particularly women and children.

The statement noted that the governor observed that the loss came at a time when Plateau State greatly needed the guidance, wisdom, and unifying presence of the cleric.

He urged the Imam’s family and community members to take solace in the legacy he left behind, describing him as a man who lived a life of faith, compassion, fairness, and selfless service, and who stood as a lasting symbol of peaceful coexistence.