There was tension on Thursday at the International Market Camp in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, as hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) staged a protest over worsening hunger and the alleged diversion of relief materials meant for their welfare. The displaced persons, who fled their ancestral homes due to persistent attacks by armed herdsmen and communal violence, expressed deep frustration over the inhumane conditions they are forced to endure in the camp.
Chanting slogans and carrying placards, the aggrieved IDPs called for urgent government intervention, accusing camp officials of hoarding food supplies and misappropriating donations intended to alleviate their suffering. According to some of the protesters, despite promises of regular food distribution and medical aid, many families have gone days without a proper meal, while children are left malnourished and sick.
Speaking to KIIN360, a visibly distressed mother of three said, “We are dying of hunger here. They bring food and share it among themselves. We see trucks arrive but nothing reaches us.” Other camp residents shared similar complaints, alleging that relief materials sent by NGOs and state authorities are either insufficiently distributed or never reach them at all.
The protest temporarily disrupted activities around the camp area, drawing the attention of security personnel and state emergency management officials. While authorities are yet to issue an official response, tension remains high as the IDPs demand transparency, accountability, and immediate relief to address their worsening humanitarian crisis.
