Plateau Massacre/American National: Open Letter to the NSA Malam Nuhu Ribadu
By Bashir Yahuza Malumfashi
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Dear Sir,
I write to respectfully draw your urgent attention to a matter of serious national concern involving a foreign national whose recent actions have sparked outrage, raised security questions and heightened tensions in Northern Nigeria in particular and the country in general.
Reports indicate that an American citizen, Alex Barber was present at the scene of a deadly attack in Rukuba, Jos (Sunday, 29 March 2026), where over ten innocent Nigerians reportedly lost their lives. One issue of grave concern is a video recorded at the scene in which he made highly inflammatory remarks, including direct and public criticism and implied threats directed at the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In the video, Mr. Barber questioned the Nigerian government’s response to ongoing violence and used language that many citizens have interpreted as provocative, divisive and capable of escalating already fragile tensions, particularly given the sensitive religious and security dynamics in Plateau State.
While Nigeria remains a democratic nation that respects freedom of expression, it is deeply troubling that a foreign national would:
• Appear at the site of a violent incident so rapidly, raising questions about access and intent.
• Make statements that could inflame public sentiment during a period of grief and unrest.
• Directly address and seemingly threaten the nation’s leadership on Nigerian soil.
Such actions, if left unexamined, risk encouraging external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs and could undermine national security efforts.
In light of the above, I respectfully urge your office to:
• Investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr. Barber’s presence at the scene of the attack, including how he gained access and whether due protocols were followed.
• Assess the security implications of his statements, particularly in relation to public order and intercommunal harmony.
• Determine whether his actions violate any Nigerian laws or international engagement protocols.
• Take appropriate action where necessary, in line with Nigeria’s laws and sovereignty, to prevent further escalation or precedent.
This request is made not in opposition to free speech but in defense of Nigeria’s sovereignty, security integrity,l and the need to prevent external actors from influencing already volatile situations.
Nigeria is navigating complex security challenges and it is essential that all responses, domestic or foreign are handled responsibly, lawfully and with sensitivity to the nation’s unity.
I trust in your office’s commitment to safeguarding the country and look forward to decisive and transparent action on this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Bashir Yahuza Malumfashi,
Editor-In-Chief, Taskar Gizago Magazine (online).
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