ActionAid Nigeria, alongside Christian Aid in a consortium led by Plan International, Sunday said they have committed at least £400,000, equivalent of N569,468,000 in providing urgent humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the latest round of conflict in the local governments of Ukum, Logo, Kwande, Apa, and Agatu in Benue state.
ActionAid has also called on the global community to urgently acknowledge the profound human toll exacted by the ongoing conflicts in Benue state for necessary intervention and to pledge unwavering support for initiatives fostering peace, reconciliation and sustainable development in the region.
Briefing newsmen after completion of a 45-day humanitarian intervention in five local government areas of Benue state, at Metropolitan Hotel, Makurdi, Country Director of ActionAid, Andrew Mamedu, represented by the manager, Humanitarian and Resilience, David Haba, lamented the humanitarian situation in the state.
He said during the 45-day humanitarian intervention carried out by the consortium, they discovered to their dismay the toll of the conflicts on the lives and livelihoods of the ordinary people affected by the crisis.
He noted that families in the affected areas have been torn apart, homes destroyed, and futures shattered.
“The trauma and suffering endured by those affected are profound and long-lasting, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable peace-building and conflict resolution efforts.
“The violence in Benue has not only resulted in loss of lives but also a profound impact on the social fabric of communities, exacerbating tensions and deepening divisions.
“The cycle of violence and displacement has continued to create a humanitarian crisis of alarming proportions, with thousands of people in urgent need of food, shelter, and medical assistance.
“The Benue crisis, unfortunately, remains one of the most overlooked humanitarian crises, receiving minimal attention and support. Despite the staggering human cost and widespread suffering endured by affected communities, media coverage and international aid efforts have been disproportionately low compared to other conflicts.
“It is incumbent upon all duty bearers to confront the suffering endured by millions of individuals affected by various forms of conflict across Benue’s communities. We implore the humanitarian community to prioritise Benue, recognising the pressing needs of its people,” he added.
