FG expels Missionary, Alex Barber out of Nigeria following inciting religious division

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has announced the expulsion of American missionary Alex Barber from Nigeria due to remarks considered inflammatory and potentially inciting violence, especially in Plateau State.

Abiodun Essiet, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), stated during a TVC interview on Monday that Barber’s actions threatened national unity.

“We’ve recognized what Alex Barber has done, so I must inform you that he is no longer in Nigeria,” Essiet said, adding that Barber was removed from the country for his divisive work.

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Essiet connected Barber’s speech in Jos to immediate violence by noting, “Right after he spoke in Jos, two Muslims were killed shortly after his speech. The provocative nature of his remarks led to his expulsion from Nigeria.”

She elaborated on the government’s decision to stop rhetoric that could ignite large-scale conflict, referencing her visits to the Rwandan Genocide Memorial. She expressed concern that similar narratives could arise in Nigeria, stating, “We don’t want Nigeria to head down that dangerous path, as it would be detrimental to everyone. We must prevent individuals who lack an understanding of our historical crises from creating division.”

In relation to national unity, Essiet emphasized, “A united Nigeria is more beneficial. Collaboration among us is vital, and we must refrain from allowing outsiders to divide us. We need to confront issues openly and truthfully.”