The Benue State Government has expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian situation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) currently taking refuge in Naka, headquarters of Gwer West Local Government Area. Officials lamented the deplorable state of the camp, noting that the displaced persons are grappling with acute shortages of basic necessities, particularly clean water and food.
During a recent visit to the area, state officials described the condition of the IDPs as unacceptable, warning that without urgent intervention, the suffering of already traumatised citizens could deepen. They revealed that the majority of the displaced persons are women, children, and the elderly who have fled their communities due to persistent insecurity and attacks by suspected armed herders.
The government noted that despite previous efforts to provide relief materials, the growing number of displaced families has overwhelmed available resources, making it increasingly difficult to meet the most basic needs of those in the camp.
Authorities called on the Federal Government, humanitarian organisations, and development partners to urgently step in and support the state’s efforts to alleviate the plight of the displaced. According to them, the state cannot shoulder the burden alone, especially as more communities continue to face displacement across various local government areas.
Residents in Naka have also appealed for the immediate deployment of clean water sources, food supplies, healthcare services, and improved shelter to prevent the outbreak of disease and malnutrition in the camp.
The Benue State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all displaced persons within its borders, stressing that long-term solutions must include restoring peace and facilitating the safe return of victims to their ancestral homes.
