Outcry as diarrhea, malaria outbreaks plague Benue IDP camp

The Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at Anyiin camp are urgently pleading for government intervention as they battle outbreaks of diarrhea and malaria.

IDOMA VOICE reports that the camp secretary Raphael Asua revealed in a telephone interview that he nearly lost his son to diarrhea, highlighting the severe health challenges facing the community.

According to Asua, aside from the persistent hunger crisis, malaria has become a major threat, affecting children, women, and the elderly due to constant mosquito bites.

The situation is exacerbated by overcrowded, overflowing toilets that have become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Although many residents sleep under mosquito nets, the nets are old, torn, and often shared by more than five people, reducing their effectiveness.

Asua called on government authorities, faith-based organizations, and philanthropists to provide immediate assistance—such as malaria testing kits, medications, new mosquito nets, and clean water—as well as to construct additional toilets to promote better hygiene practices.

He also noted that many women in the camp are suffering from various infections linked to the inadequate sanitation facilities.

In addition, Asua commended security agencies for successfully thwarting an attempted attack on the camp last Thursday. He explained that herders invaded the nearby Arufu community and, upon encountering security personnel, opened fire before being repelled. This swift action prevented what could have been a bloodier incident.