Why My Father Hid 300 Christians From Killer Herdsmen – Son of Late Plateau Imam
Masa-Udu Abdullahi-Abubakar, son of the late Chief Imam of Akwati Mosque in Nghar community, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, has explained why his father risked his life to protect nearly 300 Christians during a violent attack in 2018.
Speaking in an interview, Masa-Udu described his late father, Abdullahi Abubakar, as a man who lived by the principles of kindness, fairness and peaceful coexistence, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
According to him, the respected Islamic cleric believed deeply that humanity must always come before religious or tribal differences.
“My father never discriminated against anyone. Christians and Muslims lived together as one family in our community. That was the foundation we met when we were born,” he said.
A Life of Service and Faith
The late Abdullahi Abubakar served as Chief Imam for over 50 years, following in the footsteps of his own father, who was also an imam. He died at the age of 93 after a brief illness.
Beyond religious leadership, he was a farmer and livestock rearer who raised his family through honest labour. Despite having no formal political or traditional titles, he was widely respected across Plateau State and beyond.
“He was a trusted husband, a loving father, and a dependable neighbour. People saw him as a father figure,” his son said.
How the Imam Saved Hundreds During the 2018 Attack
Recounting the events of the 2018 crisis, Masa-Udu said armed assailants invaded the community in broad daylight, targeting Christians.
Gunshots rang through the village as terrified residents fled for safety. Many of them ran toward the mosque and the imam’s residence.
“My father saw how frightened they were and immediately opened the mosque for them. Some were hidden inside the house as well,” he recalled.
As attackers approached, the imam reportedly stood his ground, calmly confronting and pleading with them to stop the killings.
“He begged them not to attack the people hiding in the mosque. By God’s grace, they eventually left,” Masa-Udu said.
About 300 Christians remained sheltered in the mosque and the imam’s home for four days. During that time, the Muslim community provided food and protection, while Muslims and Christians prayed side by side amid fear of renewed attacks.
No Backlash, Only Praise
Contrary to expectations, the imam faced no criticism from Muslims for sheltering Christians inside the mosque.
“There was no opposition at all. Everyone praised him — Muslims and Christians alike,” his son said.
The heroic act brought recognition and awards from various bodies, including promises of government intervention for the development of the community.
Unfulfilled Promises and Lingering Pain
However, Masa-Udu lamented that many of the promises made to his father, particularly by government authorities, were never fulfilled before his death.
“These promises were not for him personally, but for the community,” he said.
He listed the lack of basic amenities such as good roads, electricity, hospitals and maternity centres, despite the presence of mineral resources like iron ore in the area.
“My father endured this pain because he wanted a better life for his people. Sadly, those promises never came true before he passed on,” he added.
Lessons of Kindness and Endurance
Masa-Udu said the strongest lessons his father left behind were kindness, forgiveness and endurance.
“He always told us to treat everyone fairly, even when people are unkind. He practised what he preached,” he said.
Even in his final days, the imam reportedly continued to preach patience and compassion to his children.
A Call for Unity and Good Governance
Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Masa-Udu urged Nigerians and governments at all levels to promote unity, peace and development.
“This country has good and loving people. If the government provides basic amenities and encourages unity, there will be peace everywhere,” he said.
He added that the peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in his community remains one of his father’s greatest legacies.
