Herdsmen attacks render 1.5m people homeless in Benue – Gov Alia

Makurdi, Benue State – Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State revealed that the state is grappling with the displacement of over 1.5 million individuals due to attacks by herdsmen, forcing them into Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs) across the region. The disclosure came during a visit by a delegation from the US Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) and other partners at Exco Hall Extension, Government House Makurdi.

Governor Alia characterized the visit as a significant milestone for Benue State, which has faced profound humanitarian challenges since 2018, stemming from persistent farmers/herders crises, banditry, and kidnapping. According to the 2022 Benue Humanitarian Response Plan, the majority of the displaced population resides in camps and host communities, facing severe challenges such as lack of access to essential services like healthcare, education, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).

The governor emphasized that more than 80% of the displaced population are traumatized and endure poor mental health due to the atrocities witnessed during the attacks. Governor Alia expressed appreciation for the efforts of international partners who have played pivotal roles in supporting the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).

Acting Executive Secretary of BSEMA, James Iorpuu, attributed the agency’s achievements to partnerships with humanitarian organizations, government ministries, departments, agencies, and civil society organizations. He acknowledged the governor’s support and passion for humanity in mitigating the impact of crises and ensuring the well-being of the affected population.

Aondoaseer Viashima, the Director General of the Bureau for Benue State International Cooperation and Development (BICD), highlighted the responsibilities of the organization. He noted that the visit by the USBHA aimed to support the state’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Persons of Concern and the State’s Resettlement Plan for IDPs.

The leader of the United States BHA delegation, Mr. Patrick Robin, outlined the objectives of their high-level visit. He stated that they sought first-hand information on the humanitarian situation and aimed to collaborate with the government to find pathways for the displaced population to be settled, return home, and reintegrate into their communities.