The Benue State Government has announced plans to distribute N1.275 billion in private donations to victims of the Yelwata community attacks. The funds, contributed by individuals and organizations, will address immediate and long-term needs. Secretary to the State Government, Deborah Aber, stated that a week-long programme for disbursing relief materials, including food and conditional cash transfers for 1,000 IDPs, commenced on Friday.
Aber detailed broader interventions funded by the donations, including enhanced nutrition for vulnerable groups and camp-level services. She highlighted a major infrastructure project, stating, “One particularly outstanding outcome… is the commencement of a gigantic water treatment plant in Naka.” The plant will provide safe water for IDPs and host communities, promoting public health and coexistence.
The SSG reiterated Governor Hyacinth Alia’s commitment to moving from emergency relief to sustainable solutions for displaced persons. The attacks in June killed at least 100 people, drawing criticism from Amnesty International, which decried the bloodshed and humanitarian crisis while calling for perpetrators to be brought to justice.