President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, Abdullahi Abubakar, who passed away at the age of 92.

Imam Abubakar gained national and international acclaim in 2018 for protecting over 200 Christians during violent communal clashes in parts of Plateau State.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also mourned his passing, describing him as a true hero of humanity.

In a condolence message shared on X by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday, President Tinubu described the cleric as an extraordinary religious leader whose life exemplified faith, courage, and the sanctity of human life.

“At a time when tribal and religious divisions threatened reason, Imam Abubakar stood firmly for peace, benevolence, and conscience,” Tinubu said.

The President highlighted that despite the severe risk to his own life, the cleric chose compassion over division and love over hatred. “His heroic actions underscore the essence of true faith, sending a powerful message to the world beyond sermons,” Tinubu added.

He noted that Abubakar’s bravery and humanity earned him both local and international recognition for promoting peaceful coexistence among people of diverse faiths and backgrounds. Tinubu called on religious and community leaders nationwide to follow the late Imam’s example by fostering tolerance, mutual respect, and harmony.

Atiku, in a message also shared on X, said the cleric lived a life that transcended religious divides and embodied shared humanity. He urged Nigerians, particularly religious leaders, to uphold the ideals Abubakar championed: interfaith harmony, mutual respect, and the protection of human life.

Peter Obi described the late Imam as a “beacon of light” who reminded everyone that the essence of Islam is peace and the protection of the vulnerable. He encouraged Nigerians to honour the cleric’s legacy by embracing love, unity, and peaceful coexistence.