The Ebenezer Christian Relief Initiative (ECRI) has urged the Federal Government to prioritise the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes in Benue State. This appeal was made during a press briefing in Makurdi, where the group's Chairman, Rev. Dr Augustine Akpen Leva, expressed concerns over the persistent insecurity in the state. He lamented that the situation has caused enormous suffering, with families losing loved ones, farmlands, and livelihoods.
According to Rev. Leva, many residents remain displaced in deplorable conditions, stressing the need for urgent action to address the situation. The group also expressed deep concern over discrepancies between casualty figures released by security agencies and accounts from eyewitnesses. They called for accurate and transparent reporting to ensure that the true extent of the crisis is understood. This, they believe, will help in finding a lasting solution to the problem.
Rev. Leva urged unity amongst traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders, and the church to resist invaders seeking to occupy their lands. He emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing the security challenges facing the state. The group also rejected the proposed pilot ranching scheme in Benue State, citing the existence of a legal framework prohibiting open grazing and providing for regulated livestock management.
The ECRI Chairman noted that any federal initiative must respect state laws, the rights of landowners, the interests of farming communities, and the security concerns of the people. He stressed that there is no land available in the state for ranching and that livestock policies should not be imposed without genuine consultation with the state government, traditional rulers, community leaders, farmers, and other relevant stakeholders.
Rev. Leva clarified that the ECRI is not opposed to lawful livestock development but is demanding the protection of lives, property, farmlands, and community rights. He recalled that Governor Hyacinth Iormen Alia had already rejected the policy during his thank-you tour, declaring that "there is no land in the state for pilot ranching". The group is insisting that the government should remain resolute in defending the legitimate interests of Benue people.
The ECRI's appeal comes as the IDPs in Benue State continue to face significant challenges in accessing basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare. The situation has been exacerbated by the lack of adequate infrastructure and social services in the IDP camps. Rev. Leva's call for the return of IDPs to their ancestral homes is seen as a critical step towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in the state.
The Federal Government is yet to respond to the ECRI's appeal, but stakeholders believe that the group's concerns must be taken seriously. The situation in Benue State remains a pressing concern, with many calling for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the insecurity and ensure the safe return of IDPs to their homes.
Key points
- The ECRI urges the FG to prioritise the return of IDPs to their ancestral homes in Benue State.
- The group rejects the proposed pilot ranching scheme in Benue State, citing existing laws and security concerns.
- The ECRI demands accurate and transparent reporting on casualty figures and security situations in the state.
