A United States-based humanitarian, Alex Barbir, has issued a direct warning to Nigerian authorities, stating they will bear responsibility if renewed violence occurs in Yelewata, a community in Benue State recently rebuilt after attacks.
In an interview with News Central TV, Barbir emphasized that while his team has helped reconstruct homes in the area—previously destroyed during communal clashes—the primary duty to protect residents rests with the state and federal government.
“If something happens in Yelewata after this rebuilding, the government is liable. The blood is on your hands,” Barbir stated. “We’ve come in good faith to help the people—to rebuild where nobody is helping. But you’re responsible to secure your own people.”
He stressed that security presence must be sustained, not temporary, to prevent another attack. Barbir also indicated that the U.S. government is aware of the situation and monitoring developments.
“The U.S. government knows what’s been done here. They know the attack, they know that I am here, they know we have rebuilt Yelewata and they support me,” he said. “Congressman Riley Moore supports what we are doing. He has the geographical coordinates of Yelewata and we are all monitoring what’s happening here.”
The plea comes amid ongoing tensions in several parts of Benue State affected by farmer-herder clashes and communal violence. Barbir’s message underscores international attention on Nigeria’s internal security challenges and places public accountability on the government to safeguard vulnerable communities.
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