By Peter Dudu
The situation at Benue's Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps has reached a critical point with reports indicating an alarming trend - the camps are now recording an average of 200 new born babies per month. This shocking statistic has left many in a state of disbelief and prompted concerns about the well-being of the women and infants living in these dire conditions.
The Executive Secretary of the Primary Health Care Board expressed grave concern, stating that the women at the camps are left feeling helpless and vulnerable. With over 1.5 million IDPs spread across 17 camps in Benue State, the scale of the crisis is overwhelming. These individuals, forced out of their homes due to attacks by armed herdsmen, are now dependent on government support and charitable donations for their survival.
From Guma to Agatu, Gwer West, Kwande, Makurdi, Logo, Apa, Okpokwu, Bururku, Otukpo and other local government areas, LGAs, it’s all tales of woes as the rural Benue farmers who are known for their prowess in food production have vacated their ancestral homes and taken refuge in IDPs camps.
Despite promises from the government to facilitate their return home, many IDPs remain stranded in the camps, grappling with inadequate food and medical supplies, as well as limited sleeping arrangements. The harsh living conditions have not deterred the residents from starting families, resulting in a significant number of births within the camps.
The troubling reality of high birth rates in these challenging circumstances highlights the urgent need for improved support and resources for the displaced population in Benue State.
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