Alex Barbir, a controversial American missionary, was expelled by the Nigerian government for allegedly making remarks that could incite violence and widen divides, especially in Plateau State.
Former American college football player Barbir became well-known for his humanitarian efforts in Nigeria’s North-Central region, where he helped displaced populations in Benue and Plateau States, dug boreholes, and rebuilt homes.
But government authorities apparently took notice of his increasing prominence and remarks on local disputes.
Abiodun Essiet, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Community Engagement (North-Central), told Premium Times that Barber’s activities posed a serious threat to national unity.
“He has been… removed and sent out of the country because of the work he’s doing, which is creating division,” Essiet said, linking his speech in Jos to violent incidents in which two individuals were reportedly killed shortly after.
Barbir’s public statements often framed Nigeria’s Middle Belt violence as systematic and coordinated, criticizing authorities and questioning official narratives.
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In interviews and social media posts, he described attacks on civilians as evidence of a broader war and alleged mismanagement of humanitarian funds.
Critics, including former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad and Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi, warned that Barbir’s rhetoric could escalate tensions in a region already scarred by violence. Social media and public petitions also questioned his proximity to conflict sites and called for investigations into his activities.
Supporters defended Barber, emphasising the humanitarian impact of his initiatives. Religious leaders, including COCIN priest Ezekiel Dachomo, praised his efforts and warned against attempts to silence him.
Barbir himself, in a statement on Facebook, denied government claims linking his work to the Jos violence, calling Essiet’s assertions “directly lying to the Nigerian and international community.”
Trust us to follow up as the story develops
