The reported expulsion of foreign national Alex Barbir by the Federal Government has sparked fresh debate over national security, religious influence, and foreign involvement in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) on Tuesday described the move as a decisive step toward protecting the country from actors it accused of exploiting religion to incite unrest.
In a statement, the group said the government’s action sends a clear warning that Nigeria will not serve as a base for individuals allegedly promoting division under the guise of religious or humanity.
MPAC linked Barbir’s activities to rising tensions in Plateau State, a region long troubled by communal clashes.
According to the organization, his rhetoric crossed the line from religious expression into incitement, aggravating an already volatile security situation.
The group further alleged that the foreign cleric targeted vulnerable youths, promoting what it described as a divisive ideology capable of fueling violence.
While praising the expulsion, MPAC warned that the action should not mark the end of accountability. It called for a full-scale investigation into local collaborators and networks that may have enabled the alleged activities.
Among those mentioned was Ezekiel Dachomo, whom the group accused of providing a platform for the dissemination of inflammatory messages.
The organization urged authorities to prosecute any individual—Nigerian or foreign—found to have facilitated or supported inciting activities, emphasizing that national security must remain paramount.
MPAC also turned attention to systemic gaps, calling on the Nigerian Immigration Service to strengthen its screening and monitoring mechanisms, particularly for individuals entering under missionary or humanitarian cover.
It stressed the need for stricter visa enforcement, warning that failure to act could allow similar situations to recur.
Beyond immediate enforcement measures, the group highlighted the importance of tackling the deeper causes of conflict in Plateau State. It recommended a broad-based inquiry involving key religious institutions, including the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Christian Association of Nigeria.
Such collaboration, MPAC argued, would help foster a more inclusive and sustainable approach to peacebuilding.
The organization also proposed the establishment of a special task force to address the humanitarian crisis affecting displaced communities in conflict-affected areas. It called for increased government funding to support reconciliation efforts, inter-communal dialogue, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Reaffirming its position, MPAC said Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength rather than a fault line. It warned against any attempts—whether by local or foreign actors—to exploit religious or ethnic differences for violence.
As reactions continue to trail the government’s decision, analysts say the situation underscores the delicate balance between religious freedom, national security, and social cohesion in Africa’s most populous nation.
The organization urged citizens, religious leaders, and civil society groups to remain vigilant and committed to peaceful coexistence and national unity as the country navigates the unfolding developments.