Benue terrorist attacks produce destitute 389 pregnant women, 2,536 children now living in Makurdi IDP camp

Benue terrorist attacks produce destitute 389 pregnant women, IDP campers need more help for their needs

By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor

Some 389 destitute pregnant women 2,536 children displaced by the terrorist attacks in Yelewata in Guma Council of Benue are taking refuge at the Makurdi Ultra Modern International Market temporary Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, according to Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).

Camp Manager Robert Nyom, who disclosed the figures in Makurdi, said more than 2,336 households comprising 5,294 persons are registered in the facility.

“The figure is made up of 2,536 children, 389 pregnant women, 233 aged women and 181 aged men,” he explained.

He denied allegations that children from the camp are being given out for care, saying there is a procedure for it and BSEMA has not received any request from anyone to adopt kids placed in the facility.

Nyom told Vanguard that as per plans by BSEMA to return the IDPs to Yelewata, the government would make adequate arrangements for their safety, security and wellbeing before returning them to their ancestral homes.

He also:

• Said BSEMA has not closed the camp and has not made moves to evacuate the campers back to their community, advising those eager to return home to be patient to enable the government make full preparation before their return.

• Commended the important roles the government as well as public spirited individuals and organisations are playing in providing food and non-food items for the IDPs, but stressed that more is required to meet their needs.

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