U.S. Missionary Alleges Fulani Militia Attacks and Government Inaction in Benue During Viral CBN Interview

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A U.S.-based missionary has ignited national and international debate following a televised interview in which he alleged that armed Fulani militia groups are responsible for deadly attacks in Benue State and accused Nigerian authorities of failing to adequately address the crisis.

Alex Barbir, founder of the American Christian nonprofit Building Zion, appeared this week on CBN News America after returning from Benue State, where he said he spent several months assisting victims of violence in Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area. The area was the site of a deadly attack in June 2025 that reportedly left more than 100 people dead, displaced thousands, and destroyed homes, farms, churches, and market structures.

During the interview, Barbir attributed the killings to armed Fulani militia groups and criticized what he described as insufficient government intervention. He claimed survivors told him the attacks were targeted and ongoing, and he called for stronger action to protect vulnerable rural communities. His remarks have since circulated widely across social media platforms, drawing both support and criticism.

Barbir stated that his organization, working through private donations and partnerships, rebuilt at least 35 homes in Yelwata, installed boreholes, constructed a small clinic, and assisted displaced families seeking to return to their community. He also raised concerns about the handling of reconstruction funds and proposals, alleging irregularities in local rebuilding plans. These claims have not been independently verified, and state officials have not publicly responded to the specific allegations as of February 12, 2026.

The violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, particularly in Benue, Plateau, Taraba, and Nasarawa states, has persisted for years. Security analysts and researchers have described the conflict as complex, involving disputes over land and grazing routes, climate pressures, ethnic tensions, criminal activity, and the proliferation of armed groups. While some community leaders frame the violence as ethnoreligious in nature, experts caution that multiple overlapping factors contribute to the insecurity.

Following the June 2025 Yelwata attack, federal authorities announced arrests and arraigned suspects on terrorism-related charges, while pledging improved security operations in affected communities. Government officials have repeatedly stated that efforts are ongoing to curb rural violence and restore stability.

The missionary’s interview has intensified calls from advocacy groups for transparent investigations, sustained humanitarian support, and long-term conflict resolution strategies. As clips from the broadcast continue to trend online, the remarks have once again spotlighted the security challenges facing farming communities across Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

The situation in Benue remains under close watch, with residents, civil society organizations, and international observers urging accountability, improved protection for civilians, and durable peace initiatives to prevent further loss of life.