February 12, 2026 — SUNTV Global Channel
An American Christian missionary, Alex Barbir, has sparked controversy after alleging that armed Fulani militias are responsible for a series of deadly attacks in parts of Nigeria, while accusing the Federal Government of failing to take action and attempting to suppress the true scale of the violence.
Barbir, who recently visited several Nigerian communities, made the claims during an interview with US-based outlet CBN News, where he expressed concern over what he described as widespread killings targeting Christian populations.
According to him, Fulani armed groups — not Boko Haram — are primarily responsible for attacks in states such as Benue, Plateau, Taraba, and Kaduna. He alleged that the perpetrators are carrying out massacres and seizing land while authorities remain largely inactive.
The missionary further accused the Nigerian government of shielding those behind the violence and downplaying reports of attacks. He claimed officials have spent significant resources lobbying internationally to counter narratives of what he called a targeted campaign against Christians.
Barbir also called on religious leaders and communities to speak out more forcefully, urging Christians not to remain silent in the face of insecurity.
His remarks come amid earlier disputes with the Benue State Government over plans to rebuild Yelwata village, which was previously attacked by bandits. Barbir claimed his proposal to construct a local market was rejected after state authorities presented a blueprint reportedly valued at ₦300 million — a figure he argued was excessive and unrealistic.
As of the time of this report, neither the Federal Government nor the Benue State Government has officially responded to his latest allegations.
Meanwhile, the controversy coincides with growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security situation. In the United States, lawmakers have introduced the proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, which seeks stronger measures against individuals and groups accused of religiously motivated violence, including potential sanctions.
The bill also reflects broader US concerns over human rights and security in Nigeria, coming alongside expanded military cooperation that includes the planned deployment of about 200 US troops to provide training and technical support to Nigerian forces.
The proposed legislation is expected to undergo further review in the US House of Representatives as global attention continues to focus on Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges.
