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Olugbemi. Adeyinka Ogunleye
1 day ago
Overview
CAN urges lasting honour for late Plateau Imam who saved 262 Christians
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for sustained public recognition and continued honour to the late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, saying his uncommon courage and sacrifice deserve not only remembrance but amplification across the nation.
In a statement signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, it urged authorities, religious bodies and the wider public to engage with the Imam’s family and ensure his story is widely told as a source of inspiration for unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
The association described the late cleric as an extraordinary religious leader whose life and actions remain a profound testimony to courage, compassion and shared humanity.
CAN recalled that the Imam will be forever remembered for his rare moral bravery during a violent massacre in 2018, when he protected innocent lives at great personal risk and saved 262 Christians.
According to CAN, the Imam’s actions transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed the sanctity of human life above all else, standing firmly on the side of humanity at a time of grave danger.
CAN noted that the singular act of heroism did more than save lives, as it also reinforced hope, strengthened interfaith harmony and reminded Nigerians that peace is possible when conscience, love and faith guide human actions.
“In a world often divided by suspicion and hatred, the Imam stood as a bridge-builder and a living symbol of what true religion represents,” the statement said.
The association recalled that in recognition of his exceptional service to humanity, the late Imam was honoured with an award during CAN’s Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021, stressing that while plaques may fade with time, his legacy will endure.
Credit: Blueprint
