CAN honors imam on 45th anniversary of Christian body

The Christian Association of Nigeria has honoured Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, who saved over 200 Christians from attacks in Barkin Ladi LGA, Plateau State.

CAN President Samson Olasupo Ayokunle conferred the award on Imam Abubakar at the “Sapphire CAN Day” Award of Excellence.

The ceremony was part of the dinner organised to mark the 45th anniversary on Saturday’s night in Abuja.

Abubakar saved over 200 people on June 24 when suspected herdsmen invaded 15 communities in the Barkin Ladi LGA, killing over 200 people.

The US in July 2019 honoured the 83-year-old along with four religious leaders from Sudan, Iraq, Brazil and Cyprus, with the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award, which is given to advocates of religious freedom.

Speaking at the event, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo urged Christian and other Nigerian leaders to be advocates of freedom of worship, justice and the rule of law.

Prof. Osinbajo, who was also honoured at the event, delivered President Muhammadu Buhari and the Federal Government’s felicitations to CAN on the celebration.

“In pursuit of a more united and peaceful society, Christian groups and leaders of faith in Nigeria must preach fairness and equity at all times and be relentless advocates of freedom of worship, justice and the rule of law,” Osinbajo said.