Categories: Benue news

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.

Treasure Orokpo

A multi-talented individual with a passion for diverse fields, Treasure Orokpo is a trained journalist, skilled cook, and AI enthusiast. When she's not uncovering the latest stories, you can find her whipping up culinary creations in the kitchen and entertainment.

Recent Posts

Latest update on fuel price hike, fuel scarcity for November 22nd, 2024

As Nigerians express their frustrations over the recent fuel price hikes by the Nigerian National…

2 hours ago

Full List of 80,000 delisted companies published by CAC

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has officially removed companies that failed to file their annual…

2 hours ago

Amended NDLEA Act: Senate approves life imprisonment for drug traffickers, rejects death penalty

The Senate on Thursday agreed with the House of Representatives' recommendation to replace the death…

3 hours ago

Monday Odigie steps down as Bendel Insurance coach

Monday Odigie, the coach of Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin, has resigned from his…

3 hours ago

Lewandowski reflects on missed Manchester United transfer

Robert Lewandowski has reflected on the time he nearly joined Manchester United in 2012, only…

3 hours ago

Okoye reflects on Super Eagles return after two years

Maduka Okoye has reflected on his first appearance for the Super Eagles in two years.…

4 hours ago