By Godwin Agia, Jalingo
The Governors of Taraba and Benue States, Dr. Agbu Kefas and Hyacinth Iormem Alia, have pledged to support displaced persons in the Chanchanji community.
The governors made the pledge on Monday during a visit to the IDP camps in Peva, where they met with displaced persons and community leaders.
Governor Kefas assured the displaced persons that the government would do everything possible to ensure their safe and timely return to their ancestral homes.
Kefas pledged to provide additional relief assistance to address their urgent humanitarian needs, particularly in food, shelter, potable water, and medical care.
“We will strengthen security measures to enable them to return to their homes as soon as possible, I do not like seeing our people in IDP camps. I will not allow our citizens to remain here and continue to suffer,” he said.
Governor Hyacinth Alia expressed concern over the persistent security challenges along the Benue-Taraba border and pledged to collaborate with Governor Kefas to ensure lasting peace and stability in the area.
Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia donated ₦10 million to support the displaced persons.
Speaking earlier, Hon. Justin Tyopuusu, Special Adviser to Governor Agbu Kefas on digital economy noted during the visit that over 90,000 registered internally displaced persons are currently camping in Peva and Kufai Amadu, without adequate shelter, water, medical care, or food, and Thousands more have fled into neighbouring communities in Benue State, stretching already limited infrastructure.
“The people of Chanchanji love you. The Tiv people of Taraba State love you. They see a Governor who knows their pain and is willing to confront it.
“The displaced persons in this community will sleep today with assurance that they will soon return to their homes and farms. Your Excellency, we appeal for your collaboration too in the area of relief supplies to these IDPs,” he said.
