The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) in Nigeria has issued a powerful call to action. The organisation is urging the nation's religious leaders, educators, media houses, and policymakers to formally adopt and promote the legacy of the late Imam Abdullahi Abubakar. They propose his life and actions as a definitive national model for fostering peaceful coexistence and building a stronger Nigeria.
A Hero's Legacy from Plateau State
Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, a cleric from Plateau State, achieved national and international acclaim for his extraordinary bravery during the 2018 communal violence in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. He risked his own life to shelter and protect more than 300 individuals, predominantly Christians, who were fleeing deadly attacks at the peak of the crisis.
For several weeks, he opened his mosque and personal home to the displaced victims, providing sanctuary until the violence subsided. This profound act of humanity earned him Nigeria’s prestigious Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2019. In a statement released over the weekend, MPAC honoured the late imam as a national hero, stating that his life perfectly exemplified courage, compassion, and moral leadership.
Rooted in Islamic Tradition of Protection
MPAC emphasised that Imam Abubakar's heroic conduct was not an isolated incident but was deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. The organisation clarified that his actions reflect core Islamic principles that emphasise the sanctity of human life, justice, and mercy above all else.
Reacting to the cleric's heroism, MPAC Executive Chairman, Alhaji Disu Kamor, provided historical context. "Only those unfamiliar with the moral and historical traditions of Islam would be surprised by such a noble deed," Kamor stated. He positioned Imam Abubakar within a long lineage of Muslim exemplars who have consistently placed humanity above hostility and conscience above conflict.
A Call to Uphold a Model for National Unity
MPAC's statement drew compelling parallels between the late imam's actions and other historic acts of religious tolerance. These included the protection of Christians by the 19th-century Algerian leader, Amir Abd al-Qadir, in Damascus, and the Prophet Muhammad's forgiveness of his former persecutors in Makkah.
"As the nation mourns his passing, we call on religious leaders, educators, media organisations and policymakers to uphold and promote Imam Abubakar’s legacy as a model of peaceful coexistence and nation-building," the MPAC statement concluded. The centre envisions this model being integrated into national discourse, educational curricula, and media narratives to inspire future generations and heal communal divides.
