Benue Govt Calls FG's Attention To Imminent Food Crisis

The Benue State Government has called the attention of the Federal Government and the international community to the imminent food crisis and other challenges faced by internally displaced persons.

This call was made by the Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Emmanuel Shior, in Makurdi, Benue State capital.

He said that it was "unfortunate" that the government isn't giving enough attention to the fact that most of the residents of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps are farmers, with a population numbering over 500,000.

He added that the challenge cannot be tackled by the state government alone, as it would need the continued support of the federal government.

Shior said, “The Benue State Government, through SEMA, is drawing the attention of the international community and the Federal Government to the impending food crisis and other challenges accompanying the continued stay of IDPs in the camps.

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“You cannot continue to keep a population of over 500,000 in the camps for more than two years, and the majority of these people are farmers. It’s unfortunate that we don’t see the Federal Government talking about this challenge. It is a challenge that cannot be left to the state government alone.

“The IDPs are still in the camps because of insecurity arising from the attacks. There are still pockets of herdsmen attacks in many communities. They have attacked people at Tse-Torkula ward and Iordye village, both in Guma local government. They also attacked the Agatu people along the river bank and Obi local government where, at least, 13 people were killed.

“We are still witnessing attacks in Kwande Local Council, especially at Moon district, where about 8, 000 people have fled, and are taking refuge in Jato-Aka.”