US-based humanitarian worker Alex Barbir has pushed back against accusations that his advocacy and presence in Nigeria are inciting violence, insisting his message is strictly about self-protection and community reconstruction in conflict zones.
In a recent interview on TVC News, Barbir addressed criticisms regarding his activities in Plateau and Benue states. He firmly denied ever calling for attacks or reprisals, stating: “I have never once called for anybody to be murdered. I have called for people to be protected.”
Barbir, born on August 17, 1997, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, works through his initiative Building Zion and the US-based NGO Equipping the Persecuted (ETP). His efforts focus on rebuilding homes, schools, and places of worship in violence-affected communities, particularly in Benue State.
He rejected claims linking his visit to Plateau State with a reprisal attack that killed two people, clarifying that the incident occurred before he arrived. “They had killed two people before I arrived. So it’s a false narrative to say my presence caused that,” he said.
Barbir acknowledged the long-standing cycle of attacks and counter-attacks in the region, which he says predates his involvement. He defended his position on self-defense in the face of government failure to provide security:“If the government is failing to protect you, you should protect yourselves from people who would take your life. There’s nothing wrong with that.”
He emphasized that his advocacy is not targeted at any specific religious or ethnic group, noting that violence impacts both Christians and Muslims. Barbir also dismissed suggestions that he is pushing foreign or political agendas, challenging his critics to provide evidence.
He said his work is funded solely through charitable donations, churches, and supportive organizations.Despite the backlash, Barbir announced plans to return to Nigeria to continue reconstruction projects in Benue and Plateau states, describing his mission as one of peacebuilding and support for vulnerable communities.
The remarks come amid ongoing debates over insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region and the role of external voices in addressing it.
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