Adeel Malik
Abdullahi Abubakar, the 83-year-old Imam who saved more than 300 people during an attack in Plateau State, has been honoured for his humanitarian service to the nation.
Abubakar, alongside governors and business moguls were honored, during the Vanguard Man of the Year awards held at Eko Hotel in Victoria Island, on Friday as reported by Sahara Reporters.
He was awarded the humanitarian of the year in recognition of his humanitarian efforts during the sectarian violence and killing in Plateaus.
The Imam had helped people fleeing Birkin Ladi Local Government Area, where part of the killings took place and hid them in his mosque and home.
His son-in-law, who accompanied him to the award ceremony, told SaharaReporters that some of the victims spent over two weeks in their home.
He described Abubakar as a disciplined and loving man, who love his children and acquaintances equally.
In a brief chat with SaharaReporters after the award ceremony, Abubakar said it was an honour to have been in the position to help the people.
In Islam, saving even one innocent person is a huge good deed for Allah says in the Quran 5:32:
…And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely…
Speaking on the event, Moses Siasia, NYPF chairman, said “this years’ anniversary banquet and award ceremony is special, and it is dedicated to outstanding Nigerians who deserve to be celebrated.
“We considered several individuals for the various categories of the award this year. And, to headline the award we have selected Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, the Imam of Nghar Village in Plateau State.
“This Imam single-handedly saved over 300 men, women and children when suspected herdsmen invaded some communities in Plateau State.
“This is the quality of service to nation that NYPF has identified and we are committed to promoting this kind of good deed so that other Nigerians can do the same.
If we have more people doing good, then we will be a better country.”
