380 Pregnant women, 2,536 children sheltered in IDP camp after Yelewata crisis — Benue SEMA

The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) has disclosed that hundreds of pregnant women and thousands of children displaced by the attack on Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area are currently residing in a temporary Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp at the Makurdi.

Speaking in Makurdi, the camp manager, Robert Nyom, confirmed that the facility is accommodating 380 pregnant women and around 2,536 children.

He revealed that over 2,336 households have been documented at the camp, accounting for a total population of 5,294 people. Among them are 233 elderly women and 181 elderly men.

Nyom dismissed rumors that children were being handed over to caregivers outside the camp.

He stressed that there is a formal procedure required for such actions, and BSEMA has not received any official request in that regard.

Addressing the issue of returning the displaced residents to their community, Nyom explained that the government is committed to ensuring their safety and welfare before any resettlement plan is implemented.

He noted that no decisions have been made yet to close the camp or begin relocation efforts, and urged those eager to go back to remain patient while preparations are put in place.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the government, private individuals, and organizations in providing relief materials.

However, he emphasized that despite these efforts, the camp still faces significant needs that require further assistance.