Northern CAN Mourns Late Imam Abubakar, Hails His Legacy of Courage and Humanity. By Raymond Enoch

The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (Northern CAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, describing him as a rare symbol of courage, faith and selfless humanity.

In a statement issued on Saturday17th January 2026 by the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association said the passing of the 92-year-old cleric marks the loss of a moral compass whose actions spoke louder than words during one of Nigeria’s darkest moments.
Northern CAN recalled that Imam Abubakar earned national and international admiration in 2018 when he risked his life to shelter more than 200 Christians during a violent communal crisis that engulfed parts of Plateau State.

Rev. Hayab noted that the late cleric’s conduct exemplified the true essence of faith-driven leadership, adding that his legacy would remain a lasting reference point for peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic divides.

Quoting Proverbs 10:7, the association stated that “the memory of a good man will not be forgotten,” stressing that Imam Abubakar’s name would endure and continue to inspire generations long after his passing.

The Northern Christian leader emphasized that the late Imam’s actions affirmed the belief that genuine religion upholds the sanctity of human life, mutual respect and love for one another, regardless of creed or background.

Northern CAN urged religious leaders across the country to draw lessons from Imam Abubakar’s life by consistently preaching peace, tolerance and compassion, especially in times of tension and uncertainty.

The association also called on Nigerians to uphold the values of unity and humanity demonstrated by the late Imam, noting that national healing and security can only be achieved through a collective commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Northern CAN prayed for comfort for the family of the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar and extended its condolences to the Muslim community in Plateau State and the nation at large.