US Mission mourns Imam Abdullahi, hails legacy of tolerance
On January 20, 2026, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria issued a formal statement mourning the passing of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, who died on January 15, 2026, at the age of 90.
The Mission hailed him as a "fearless advocate for religious tolerance" whose outreach across religious communities would continue to inspire both Nigerians and Americans.
Legacy of Tolerance
Imam Abdullahi gained international recognition for his heroic actions during the June 2018 violent attacks in Plateau State:
Saving Lives: He sheltered and saved approximately 300 Christians by hiding them in his personal home and mosque in Nghar village, Gashish District.
Courage Under Fire: He reportedly stood his ground against armed assailants, refusing to release those he was protecting by claiming they were all Muslims.
International Honors: In recognition of his bravery, he received the U.S. International Religious Freedom Award (2019) and the Nigerian national honor of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON).
National Tributes
Nigerian leaders joined the U.S. Mission in honoring his memory:
President Bola Tinubu praised him for choosing humanity over division.
Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar also shared tributes, describing him as a "beacon of light" and a symbol of interfaith harmony.
Christian leaders, including Pastor Dr. Yohanna Buru, described his loss as one felt deeply across both churches and mosques in Nigeria.
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