Lessons in Humanity: What We Can Learn from the Late Imam’s Selfless Act

 Lessons in Humanity: What We Can Learn from the Late Imam’s Selfless Act

The late Chief Imam Abdullahi Abubakar will be remembered not only as a religious leader, but also as a rare example of humanity, courage, and moral clarity amid one of Nigeria's darkest times. His altruistic acts during the 2018 Plateau State massacres, in which he protected hundreds of Christians from vicious attackers, serve as a timeless lesson for a nation that is frequently divided along religious and ethnic lines.

A defining moment in 2018.

In June 2018, violence erupted in sections of Plateau State following attacks on villages, killing scores and displacing more. As dread spread and neighbors turned on one another, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar faced a decisive moral test.

Rather than giving in to fear or religious feeling, the Imam opened his home and mosque in Nghar village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, to Christians fleeing for their lives. According to reports, he provided sanctuary for approximately 300 individuals, including women and children. When armed attackers arrived and asked that the Christians be handed up, the Imam refused, saying they would have to murder him first.

That decision saved lives.

Humanity trumps religion.

One of the most important teachings from Imam Abubakar's life is that humanity comes before religious identification. At a time when religion was being used to excuse violence, he proved that faith, when correctly understood, is intended to preserve life rather than destroy it.

His actions validated a simple yet strong truth:

Being human before being Muslim or Christian.

This lesson is especially pertinent in Nigeria, where religion is frequently used to divide people. The Imam's example serves as a reminder that peaceful coexistence is a daily moral choice, not just a slogan.

Moral courage in the face of death.

Another lesson from the late Imam was moral courage. He wasn't armed. He was elderly. Nonetheless, he confronted men with firearms based only on conviction and conscience.

True courage, as he demonstrated, is not the absence of fear, but the will to do the right thing despite the peril. In a culture where quiet and neutrality frequently support injustice, Imam Abubakar chose to act.

His boldness reminds leaders, religious, political, and traditional, that authority without morality is meaningless.

Leadership based on service

Imam Abdullahi Abubakar's leadership was based on service to humanity rather than power, fortune, or influence. He did not seek recognition or reward. He behaved spontaneously, guided by values steeped in compassion.

This calls on today's leaders to reconsider leadership—not as power, but as responsibility. The Imam demonstrated that leadership entails safeguarding the vulnerable, even at personal danger.

Rejecting extremism and hatred

In an era where extremism thrives on ignorance and hatred, the Imam's acts represent a clear rejection of violent philosophy. He debunked the myth that violence can always be justified in the name of religion.

By standing up to killers who claimed religious justification, he reminded the world that extremism is a betrayal of faith, not expression.

Nigeria must protect its legacy.

Imam Abdullahi Abubakar lived to the age of 92, yet his legacy will last for generations. His tale should be taught in schools, preached in mosques and churches, and remembered in public debate.

In a country plagued by instability and mistrust, his existence provides a roadmap:

Choose humanity before hatred.

Courage over Silence

Unity over division.

Conclusion

The late Chief Imam Abdullahi Abubakar did more than only protect Christians; he also protected Nigeria's conscience during a time of persecution. His altruistic gesture demonstrates that even in the most violent moments, one person guided by humanity can make a difference.

May his legacy inspire a new generation to advocate for life, peace, and harmony.