The Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA) has reported a sharp rise in the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) seeking refuge in the state following the recent deadly attacks in Yelwata, a border town between Benue and Nasarawa States.

 

Speaking in Lafia over the weekend, NASEMA Director General, Benjamin Akwash, revealed that the IDP population in the state has climbed to 4,253, with new camps being established to accommodate the influx. The attack in Yelwata, which claimed over 200 lives, has led to mass displacements from the region and surrounding communities.

 

Akwash confirmed the opening of a new camp in Obi Local Government Area, which currently shelters 1,020 individuals. He also provided updated figures from other camps:

 

St. John Agyraragu Camp (Lafia LGA) – 1,852 IDPs

 

Idadu Camp (Doma LGA) – 672 IDPs

 

Kpata Camp (Doma LGA) – 709 IDPs

 

 

He noted that many displaced persons from Kadarko Camp had moved elsewhere, fearing renewed attacks in the area.

 

While many of the IDPs originated from Yelwata, Akwash clarified that residents from nearby communities also fled out of fear of further violence.

 

He assured that the state government is actively working to ease the suffering of displaced persons through the provision of relief materials. Plans for procurement of food and non-food items are underway, and distribution is expected in the coming days.

 

“We are making frantic efforts to bring succour to the affected persons without further delay,” Akwash said, urging the displaced to remain calm.