The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria, has called on religious leaders, educators, media organisations, and policymakers to uphold the legacy of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, a Plateau State cleric celebrated for saving over 300 Christians during the 2018 communal violence in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State.

At great personal risk, the late Imam opened his mosque and private residence to shelter fleeing Christians, protecting them for weeks until the crisis subsided. This heroic act earned him Nigeria’s Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2019 and national and international recognition.

In a statement, MPAC described Imam Abubakar as a national hero, whose life exemplified courage, compassion, and moral leadership, rooted in Islamic teachings emphasizing the sanctity of life, justice, and mercy.

Alhaji Disu Kamor, MPAC Executive Chairman, said the Imam’s actions reflected a long-standing Islamic tradition of protecting the innocent regardless of faith, drawing parallels to historic acts of religious tolerance, including the protection of Christians by Amir Abd al-Qadir and the forgiveness shown by Prophet Muhammad.

MPAC urged all stakeholders to promote Imam Abubakar’s legacy as a model of peaceful coexistence and nation-building.