Yemi Obafemi
The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has paid glowing tribute to the late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, who sheltered and saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in Plateau State in 2018.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN described the cleric as a symbol of rare courage, selflessness, and interfaith harmony.
Okoh said the late Imam’s decision to protect innocent lives at great personal risk demonstrated that the sanctity of human life transcends religious boundaries.
“The late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi will forever be remembered for his rare moral bravery and selflessness at a time of grave danger,” the statement read. “By choosing to protect innocent lives, he reinforced the truth that human life is sacred above all else.”
CAN noted that the Imam’s actions went beyond saving lives, saying they strengthened hope, promoted peaceful coexistence, and served as a powerful reminder that unity is possible when love, conscience, and faith guide human actions.
“In a world often divided by suspicion and hatred, the Imam stood as a bridge-builder and a living symbol of what true religion represents,” Okoh said.
The association recalled that Imam Abdullahi was honoured during CAN’s Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021 in recognition of his exceptional service to humanity, stressing that his legacy would outlive any award.
While mourning his death, CAN called for sustained public recognition of the cleric’s sacrifice, including engagement with his family, to ensure his story continues to inspire unity, mutual respect, and peace across the country.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his community, and all who were touched by his remarkable example,” the statement added. “May his legacy continue to speak where words fall short.”
