Personality in Focus
Nigeria Mourns As Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, Who Sheltered Multiple Christians, Dies at 90
By Eric Elezuo
Nigerians are mourning celebrated Muslim cleric, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, who is reputed for sheltering 262 Christians during the 2018 sectarian attacks in Plateau State.
Abubakar, who held the post of the Chief Imam of Nghar village in the Barkin Ladi local government area of the state, passed away after a brief illness at the age of 92
Confirming his death, one of his sons, Saleh Abubakar, said his father died on Thursday night at the Plateau Specialist Hospital, Jos, 10 days after he was admitted.
Imam Abubakar, who was also a herder, left behind 19 children including 12 boys and 7 girls.
The late Islamic cleric rose to prominence following his extraordinary act of courage on June 23, 2018, when armed assailants attacked several communities in Barkin Ladi LGA, leaving dozens dead.
Following the announcement of his death, Nigerians from all walks of life including Christians, have risen stoutly to eulogise his life and times, crediting greatness, humanity and purposeful living to the nonagenarian.
Leading the long list of mourners, President Bola Tinubu expressed sorrow over the death of the Chief Imam of Nghar village in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State just as Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, have also expressed sadness over his death, describing him as a true hero of humanity.
Tinubu, in a condolence message shared on X by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the cleric as an extraordinary religious leader whose life was a powerful testament to faith, courage, and the sanctity of human life.
“At such a time when tribal and religious tendencies seemed to overwhelm reason, Imam Abubakar stood firmly on the side of peace, benevolence, and conscience,” the President said.
He noted that despite the grave danger to his own life, the cleric chose compassion over division and love over hatred.
“Mindless of the enormous risk to his own life, the noble cleric chose humanity over division, love as opposed to hatred, and embrace rather than rejection. His heroic feat underlines the essence of true faith, resonating louder than sermons in a salient message to the world at large,” Tinubu added.
Tinubu urged religious and community leaders across the country to emulate the late Imam’s example by promoting tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
Atiku, in his message which was also shared on X, said the cleric lived a life that transcended religious divides and affirmed our shared humanity. The former vice president urged Nigerians, particularly religious leaders, to recommit to the ideals the late cleric embodied in inter-faith harmony, mutual respect, and an unwavering defence of the sanctity of every human life.
On his part, Obi described the late Imam as a beacon of light, “reminding us that the core of Islam is peace and the protection of the vulnerable.” He called on Nigerians to embrace love, unity, and peaceful coexistence in honour of the late Islamic cleric, adding that what Imam Abubakar did was exactly the expectations of citizens from their leaders; protect life and property.
In a condolence message, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, said Imam Abubakar’s commitment to interfaith harmony and protection of the vulnerable earned him the respect of Nigerians and the global community.
Mutfwang added that Abubakar’s passing “has left a significant void in Barkin Ladi,” urging residents to uphold the values of compassion, tolerance, and unity that he embodied.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, I extend my deepest condolences to the family and all those mourning the loss,” the governor said. “May Almighty God grant them comfort and strength to bear this painful loss.”
Also expressing heartfelt sympathies, Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), Yusuf Babayo, described the death of Imam Abdullahi as painful and a significant loss to the Muslim Ummah.
“It is difficult to get a leader like Imam Abdullahi. He was an elder statesman whose valuable contribution to peace in the state will be greatly missed,” Babayo said.
“He did not discriminate and treated everybody as his own, irrespective of religious differences. The vacuum created by his death cannot be filled by anyone in the state.”
In his reaction on behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State Secretary Rev. Simon Julius, described the late Imam as a rare figure whose courage and legacy transcended religious boundaries.
“In every religion, there are good and bad. For us, the late Imam will be remembered for his courage and for saving human lives,” Rev. Julius said. He also sympathised with the Muslim Ummah over the loss and urged individuals to emulate the lifestyle of Imam Abdullahi for the betterment of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) Plateau State chapter also expressed shock at his passing, while submitting to the will of Allah SWT. In a statement signed by its Secretary, Dr. Salim Musa Umar, JNI described the late Imam as an exceptional leader who demonstrated compassion during a trying period for his community.
“He was credited with hiding over 200 Christians in his mosque during one of the most devastating ethno-religious conflicts in Plateau State, the statement read.
“On behalf of the chairman and Emir of Wase, JNI extends its condolences to his family, Plateau State, and Nigeria. No doubt, we have lost a rare gem. Humanity will never forget his sacrifices, and history will remember him positively.”
Late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi has since been buried in Nghar village, Barkin Ladi LGA, the Jumma’at Prayer in his honour.
IMAM ABDULLAHI ABUBAKAR IN BRIEF
The Imam was able to save the lives of 262 people, predominantly Christians from the Birom tribe, by sheltering them in his mosque as attackers roamed the villages.
In July 2019, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar received the International Religious Freedom Award from the United States government, which is granted to supporters of religious freedom, together with four other religious leaders from Sudan, Iraq, Brazil, and Cyprus.
In August 2019, President Buhari authorized the inclusion of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar in the membership of the national Ulama committee and was part of an 80-man Ulama committee charged with the responsibility of educating Nigerian pilgrims in Mina during the 2019 Hajj.
Imam Abubakar received many other awards during his lifetime, including US International Religious Freedom Award (2019), Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) and an Award of Excellence.
He died on January 15, 2026 after a brief illness.
Personality in Focus
Eminent Gents Int’l Announces Philanthropist Abiodun Enilari Paseda As New President
By Eric Elezuo
The Eminent Gents International Club, an association of eminent gentlemen, who have proved their mettle in the society, and committed to lending a helping to the upliftment of the society, has announced Sir Abiodun Paseda as its new president.
Paseda takes over from Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni, who performed creditably well during his tenure in office.
The announcement was made following a keenly contested electoral process, where Paseda was elected unopposed. His election, according to a cross section of the club members, was made possible as a result of the confidence members reposed in him owing to his acknowledged discipline, focus and leadership abilities.
Announcing the results, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Eminent Barr. Taiwo Odumosu, commended members for the maturity, discipline, and commitment they demonstrated throughout the process, noting that despite minor challenges encountered, members conducted themselves in a manner that reflected the values and ideals upon which the Club was founded.
Immediate Past President Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni
Barr. Odumosu congratulated the newly elected officers and urged them to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership capable of strengthening the unity and growth of the Club.
Among members of the executive council, who will be working with Eminent Paseda are Eminent Barr. Oluwaseun Basorun, who was elected as the Vice President and Eminent Ariyo Abass, who won the General Secretary position.
Others are Eminent Ganiu Omotoso for the office of the Assistant General Secretary, Eminent Akinsanya Olaseni as Financial Secretary, Eminent Muyiwa Jayesimi as the Treasurer, Eminent Barrister Yomi Akodu as the Public Relations Officer and Eminent Segun Fetuga, who won the position of the Social Secetary.
Eminent Odumosu admonished the incoming administration to ensure that no member is left behind in the affairs of the Club, and to place the welfare of members at the forefront of its programmes and policies in order to continue to enhance the beautiful etiquette of the almost 20 years Club.
The Eminent Gents International Club was established in 2006 as a group saddled with the responsibility of catering for the less privileged, the needy and the have-nots of the society. The Club strongly believes in giving back to the society, with an overriding philosophy, which revolves around pooling skills, resources and experience to create a sustainable change, and improve the lives of those in need.
New Vice President Eminent Barrister Oluwaseun Bashorun
Consequently, the Club has prioritise engagements in targeted initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues affecting the needy cutting across food, heathcare, shelter, clothing and not forgetting empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Eminent Paseda pledged to live up to expectations, and ensure that the founding principles of the Club is not derailed.
He congratulated his co-executive council members, urging everyone to give their best performance to ensure the success of the administration in particular, and the Club in general.
A distinguished Nigerian based in London, England, Paseda is the Chief Executive Officer, Focus on Disabilities (FOD) Foundation, a not for profit organization that is saddled with the responsibility of seeing to the wellbeing of those living with disabilities. The organization, founded in 2010, has supervised the provision of sundry humanitarian assistance to people living with disabilities across Nigeria and the African continent with special mention to England, his place of residence.
He is a stern believer in the lifting of the downtrodden in the society, and has been awarded the Humanitarian award by Ceebee Gold Foundation.
A recipient of the BEFFTA Award, Africa achiever Award, Scotland among many others, Paseda has since 2012 been distributing movement enhancing materials to the disabled across the continent. Some of these distributions include 60 wheel chairs and disability aids in Kano and Kaduna states in 2012; distribution of clutches, wheel chairs, food items among other things in Ogun state in March and September 2013. Ever since, the selfless giver has not looked back in supporting the less privileged with his resources. He runs an all-expense paid home for people living with disabilities in Odogbolu, Ogun State
Paseda’s humanitarian outreach stretches across Africa and the UK where he is reputed to have touched a lot of lives.
A new chapter in clinical leadership has commenced at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, with the appointment of renowned Consultant Nephrologist, Dr. Olusola Adebisi, as the institution’s new Head of Clinical Services (HCS). He officially resumes duty today, Monday, June 15, 2026, following the expiration of the tenure of his predecessor, Dr. A.S. Adediran, whose stewardship contributed significantly to the advancement of clinical services within the tertiary healthcare institution.
The appointment, approved by the 7th Board of Management at its 6th Extraordinary Meeting held on June 8, 2026, is hailed as a strategic move that places one of the hospital’s most experienced clinicians and respected administrators at the helm of its clinical operations. With a distinguished career spanning renal medicine, healthcare leadership, organized medicine, and community service, Dr. Adebisi brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence to the role.
Until his appointment, Dr. Adebisi served as Head of the Nephrology Unit at FMC Abeokuta, where he earned recognition as one of the leading authorities on kidney-related illnesses within the West African sub-region. A passionate advocate for preventive nephrology, he has spearheaded numerous community sensitization initiatives, including annual World Kidney Day campaigns aimed at promoting early detection and management of kidney disease. He has also mentored and supervised generations of resident doctors, medical officers, and specialized nephrology nurses, helping to sustain a culture of clinical excellence.
His leadership credentials extend beyond clinical practice. Dr. Adebisi previously served as Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), FMC Abeokuta Chapter, where he was instrumental in fostering professional harmony and academic advancement among consultants. He currently serves as Faculty Treasurer of the West African College of Physicians (WACP), a role that underscores his financial discipline, organizational trust, and administrative competence. His earlier engagements with the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) further enriched his understanding of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Adebisi is actively involved in civic and community development. He currently serves as President of the Rotary Club in the Oke-Ona Egba District, championing humanitarian, maternal health, and community empowerment initiatives. He is also the Social Secretary of the Abeokuta Sports Club, contributing to social cohesion and cultural development within Ogun State.
A devout Christian and committed family man, Dr. Adebisi is widely respected for a leadership style rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. As Head of Clinical Services, he is expected to focus on strengthening patient-centred care, enhancing clinical research and residency training, improving interdepartmental collaboration, and promoting institutional harmony across all clinical cadres.
Speaking on his vision for the office, Dr. Adebisi emphasized the need for innovation, professionalism, and teamwork in healthcare delivery. “Our objective remains clear: to deliver compassionate, world-class, and accessible healthcare to our immediate community and beyond, fueled by clinical innovation, integrity, and absolute dedication to human life,” he said.
With his assumption of office today, stakeholders within and outside FMC Abeokuta express optimism that his blend of clinical expertise, administrative experience, and people-centred leadership will further strengthen the institution’s position as a leading centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research.
Personality in Focus
June 12: Tinubu Confers National Honours on Kolade-Otitoju, Dasuki, Okei-Odumakin, Others
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several prominent pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and retired military officers in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle and the historic June 12 movement.
The announcement was made during the President’s nationwide Democracy Day broadcast commemorating Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
According to President Tinubu, the awards are intended to immortalize the sacrifices of individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, solitary confinement, harassment, and exile during the fight against military dictatorship and the struggle to actualize the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate.
Tinubu Honours Democracy Heroes
The President emphasized that the honourees played critical roles in defending democratic values and laying the foundation for the civilian rule Nigeria enjoys today.
Among those recognized are veteran journalists, media executives, civil rights advocates, and leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), whose resistance to military rule helped shape the nation’s democratic journey.
Media and Civil Society Leaders Recognised
Notable recipients in the media and civil society category include:
* Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)
* Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Director of News at TVC News and veteran journalist
* Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, renowned human rights campaigner
* Chief Ayo Opadokun, NADECO chieftain
* Sam Omatseye
* Oladele Alake
* Olatunji Bello
* Louis Odion
* Tunde Fagbenle
* Richard Akinnola
* Debo Adeniran
The recognition highlights the pivotal role played by the media and civil society organizations in resisting authoritarian rule and advocating for democratic governance.
Retired Military Officers Honoured for Opposing Dictatorship
In what observers have described as a historic and groundbreaking move, President Tinubu also created a special category to honour military officers who worked from within the armed forces to challenge authoritarian rule and support democratic ideals.
The honoured retired officers include:
* Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd)
* Colonel Lawan Gwadabe (retd)
* Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe
* Major General Ishola Williams (retd)
* Major General M.A. Garba
* Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa
The President noted that these officers risked their careers, personal freedom, and lives in pursuit of democratic governance during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods.
Celebrating 27 Years of Democracy
The national honours ceremony forms part of activities marking Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in remembrance of the 1993 presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving democratic institutions, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring that the sacrifices of June 12 heroes remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s national memory.
The honours have been widely viewed as a significant step toward acknowledging the contributions of individuals and groups whose courage and resilience helped restore democratic rule and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
