The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) Nigeria has called on Nigerian authorities to immediately arrest and prosecute Alex Barbir over a viral video allegedly showing him inciting violence and spreading hate messages in Plateau State.
In an urgent press release issued on Wednesday, MPAC expressed concern over the circulating footage, noting that although the authenticity of the video has not been independently verified, the content appears to be fueling hate speech and violence against Muslims and minority groups in affected areas.
The organisation stated that Barbir’s actions are unacceptable and accused authorities of allowing him to continue activities it described as destructive, warning that such conduct has already resulted in loss of lives and property.
MPAC further described Barbir as a symbol of hate speech and hate crimes, alleging that his comments are encouraging already aggrieved youths to resort to self-help, which it said poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s peace, stability, and unity. The group also questioned what it termed double standards, arguing that a Nigerian would likely face severe consequences for similar actions in another country.
The centre urged Nigerian intelligence and security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to prevent further escalation of violence and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities. It added that if the viral video is found to be fabricated, those responsible for creating and circulating it must be identified and held accountable.
MPAC reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for peace, justice, and sovereignty, while rejecting what it described as foreign interference and injustice against Nigerians. The group stressed that authorities must take concrete action against Barbir and others it accused of attempting to divide the country.
The organisation also provided a link to the video said to be circulating online.
The statement was signed by Disu Kamor, Executive Chairman of the Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), Nigeria.
