MPAC COMMENDS FG FOR SWIFT EXPULSION OF ALEX BARBIR, DEMANDS FULL INVESTIGATION INTO LOCAL COLLABORATORS AND INCITING NETWORKS
The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for what it described as a swift and decisive move in expelling Alex Barbir from the country.
In a statement released to the press, the group said the action was both timely and necessary, noting that it sends a strong message that Nigeria will not serve as a safe haven for foreign individuals who exploit religious platforms to incite division, violence, and instability.
MPAC cited evidence in the public domain allegedly linking Barbir to inflammatory rhetoric capable of worsening the already fragile security situation in Plateau State. According to the organisation, his activities went beyond religious expression and contributed to rising tensions that have resulted in loss of lives.
The group further alleged that Barbir operated under the guise of missionary and humanitarian work while promoting divisive ideologies aimed at mobilising vulnerable youths toward violence and hate-driven actions, rather than advancing peaceful coexistence.
While acknowledging the government’s action, MPAC stressed that expulsion alone is insufficient and called for further steps to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence.
Among its key demands, the organisation called for a comprehensive investigation into individuals and networks within Nigeria who allegedly collaborated with Barbir. It specifically raised concerns about the reported involvement of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, who it claimed provided a platform for the dissemination of inflammatory rhetoric.
MPAC also urged authorities to scrutinise and prosecute any persons local or foreign found to have supported or facilitated activities capable of inciting violence or deepening sectarian divisions. It emphasised that national security must not be compromised by individuals acting as agents of foreign interests.
The group further recommended stricter immigration controls, particularly for individuals entering Nigeria under the pretext of humanitarian or missionary work, noting that such channels are sometimes exploited for subversive purposes. It also called for stricter enforcement of visa compliance laws to ensure violators are not only expelled but prosecuted accordingly.
In addition, MPAC advocated for a thorough investigation into the root causes of the ongoing communal conflicts in Plateau State. It proposed that such an effort should involve interfaith collaboration, including participation from the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness.
The organisation also called for the establishment of a special task force to address the humanitarian needs of displaced persons, support reconciliation efforts, and promote long-term peacebuilding initiatives. It emphasised the need for adequate funding toward solutions such as inter-communal dialogue, economic empowerment, and social cohesion programmes.
Reiterating its stance, MPAC stated that Nigeria’s diversity remains a source of strength and warned against any attempts whether local or foreign to weaponise religion or identity for violent purposes.
The group concluded by urging Nigerians, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to remain vigilant and committed to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and national unity.
