The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has expressed serious concern over the increasing number of snake bites reported in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. In the past two weeks alone, 16 cases have been recorded.
Sir James Iorpuu, Executive Secretary of SEMA, highlighted the issue on Wednesday while launching the distribution of relief materials to 14 IDP camps across the state. The affected camps include Daudu I and II in Guma Local Government Area (LGA) and Ichwa camp in Makurdi LGA.
Iorpuu emphasized the significant challenge of providing health support for the IDPs, especially in dealing with snake bites, and called for increased assistance from partners. He noted, “Benue-SEMA has faced the tragic challenge of snake bites among our IDP populations. We have successfully treated over 16 cases, thanks to our health teams and partners. However, additional medical supplies and support are still needed to prevent further incidents.”
To mitigate the problem, all IDP camps, including the Ikyogen refugee camp, have been fumigated. The Executive Secretary also announced plans to start IDP farms in Kwande, Logo, and Gwer-West LGAs. These farms aim to support self-reliance and food security among displaced communities. Governor Hyacinth Alia’s donation of a tractor was praised as crucial for the project’s success.
Iorpuu acknowledged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for its recent donation of 1,347 cartons of liquid fertilizer, which will enhance farming productivity for IDPs. He also expressed gratitude to international organizations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the World Bank, for their support. The construction of 50 shelter units in Nyihemba, Kwande LGA, is set to begin this month, marking a positive development for displaced individuals.
The Executive Secretary further addressed a recent incident involving the diversion of relief materials from the Ichwa IDP camp. He confirmed that three agency personnel and the truck driver involved were apprehended, and an investigation is ongoing.
Iorpuu assured that relief materials, including rice, beans, corn, garri, noodles, cooking oil, and other essentials, would be distributed equitably and transparently. He commended Governor Alia for his dedication to improving the conditions of IDPs and refugees in the state.