Benue Commissioner Seeks Aid For IDPs In Disturbed Communities

The Benue State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, has appealed to civil society organizations and international donors to urgently assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Naka, Gwer West Local Government Area.

Kunde made the call on Thursday during a policy document validation meeting at Benue Hotels Resorts in Makurdi. The event focused on addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis triggered by repeated armed attacks across the state.

According to the commissioner, numerous communities in Gwer West have suffered repeated attacks, resulting in a sharp rise in displacement. He revealed that the number of displaced persons in Naka now surpasses that of Yelewata camp, located at the International Market in Makurdi.

“Despite the large population of IDPs in Naka, they still lack basic necessities such as clean water and food,” Kunde said.

“We must rally support for these vulnerable communities in Gwer West to ensure no one is left behind.”

The meeting also highlighted the state’s new IDP policy framework, which aims to localize national guidelines and create sustainable solutions to forced displacement.

Murjanatu Kabir, Policy and Advocacy Manager at Save The Children International, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to protecting displaced children in Benue. She emphasized that any relocation efforts must be driven by a comprehensive policy that ensures the safety, well-being, and long-term stability of affected populations.

“This initiative by the state government marks a significant step toward addressing the needs of vulnerable groups, especially children,” Kabir stated.

Also speaking at the event, Peter Uchi, a member of the State Assembly representing the Guma constituency, described his area as the “worst hit” by recent armed herdsmen attacks. He called for the inclusion of mental health support in the resettlement strategy.

“Some residents of Yelewata woke up to find their entire families gone. The trauma of such experiences must be addressed in our policy framework,” Uchi stressed.

James Umoru, who represents the Apa constituency and chairs the House Committee on Humanitarian Affairs, assured that the State Assembly is committed to fast-tracking discussions on IDP issues.

He emphasized the need for oversight, community inclusion, and direct engagement with displaced populations, whether in camps or within host communities.

“No IDP camp can replace the comfort of home. Oversight visits to these camps will help us make informed policy decisions,” Umoru said.

Providing insight into the policy validation process, the Director General of Benue State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), John Akuse, highlighted the importance of tailoring national policies to local realities.

He said each chapter of the policy document was being carefully reviewed to ensure cultural relevance and practical impact.

“By tomorrow, we expect to finalize a comprehensive, people-owned policy that truly reflects the needs of Benue State,” Akuse concluded.