The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has paid tribute to the late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, remembering him as a symbol of courage, compassion and interfaith unity after his death at about 90 years old, the association said in a statement on Saturday, January 17, 2026. CAN said his actions during a deadly attack in Plateau State will remain etched in national memory.

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of CAN, said Imam Abdullahi’s decision to protect 262 Christians at great personal risk during a violent communal clash in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area in June 2018 demonstrated rare moral bravery and selflessness.

His intervention, CAN said, “transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed that the sanctity of human life is sacred above all else.”

The violence in 2018 forced many residents to flee or face death as bandits and armed groups attacked villages in the area. Amid that chaos, Imam Abdullahi opened his mosque and home to Christians fleeing the violence, shielding them until the conflict subsided.

CAN said the Imam’s act of courage did more than save lives — it strengthened interfaith harmony, restored hope and reminded Nigerians of the possibility of peace when guided by conscience, love and mutual respect. The association described him as a “bridge-builder” whose legacy will continue to inspire leaders and communities nationwide.

In its statement, CAN noted that Imam Abdullahi was previously honoured for his bravery, including recognition during the association’s Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021.

It urged sustained public recognition of his story so that future generations can learn from his example of unity and compassion across religions.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and political figures including Peter Obi also mourned the cleric, praising his selfless leadership and describing his life as a powerful testimony to humanity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

Imam Abdullahi is survived by his family and community in Nghar village, Barkin Ladi, where his courage during one of the country’s darkest moments earned national and international respect.

CAN called on Nigerians and religious leaders to build on Imam Abdullahi’s legacy by promoting unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence across communities, ensuring his act of bravery continues to shape national conversations on interfaith harmony.