Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Imam of Gindin Akwati, Alhaji Abubakar Abdullahi who was reported to have saved the lives of 262 Christians during an attack in his community.
In June 2018, during an attack by suspected armed fulani men that affected 10 villages in Barkin Ladi, Imam Abubakar sheltered 262 Christians in his mosque and residence until the attack was brought under control.
In a condolence message, Governor Mutfwang described the late Imam as a man of purpose, whose life was distinguished by an unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and the protection of the vulnerable, particularly women and children.
Gov. Mutfwang through his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere highlighted the late Imam’s remarkable leadership in promoting harmony and safeguarding lives as a legacy that earned him both national and international recognition.
Governor Mutfwang described the death of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi as a monumental loss to his immediate family, his community, and Plateau State at large.
He commended the late cleric for his tireless advocacy for interfaith harmony, building bridges of forgiveness, compassion, and empathy among diverse communities across the state and beyond.
The Governor further noted that the revered community leader dedicated his life to the advancement, development, and well-being of his people, and that his sudden passing leaves a significant void in the leadership of Yelwa, Gindin Akwati, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. He prayed for God to raise leaders of integrity and wisdom to continue the legacy exemplified by the late Imam.
Governor Mutfwang observed that the loss comes at a time when the state greatly needed the guidance, wisdom, and unifying presence of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi. He 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.
On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest condolences to the family and all those mourning the loss, praying that Almighty God grants them comfort and strength to bear the painful loss.
The cleric died on Thursday night at the Plateau Specialist Hospital in Jos, at the age of 90, 19 children 12 sons and 7 daughters, according to his son, Saleh Abubakar.
Action of the late Imam in 2018, earned him widespread recognition, including the International Religious Freedom Award presented by the United States Department of State in 2019 and Presidential recognition.
The late cleric will be laid to rest on Friday (today) in Nghar village after the Juma’at prayers.