From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Benue State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde has stressed the need for stakeholders to make holistic input into the IDP policy document validation programme.
Kunde made the declaration during a review meeting to validate the policy document Thursday in Makurdi.
The commissioner explained that the meeting will provide an opportunity for participants to make inputs to ensure that the final document is devoid of criticism.
He expressed optimism that participants would make valuable contributions to conform the document to Benue’s peculiarities.
The commissioner lamented the neglect of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, at NKST Naka camp, citing lack of basic needs such as water.
He called on humanitarian partners, non-governmental organisations and people of goodwill to assist the IDPs.
In his speech, the Chairman of Benue State House of Assembly Committee on Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Abu Umoru emphasised the need to consider cultural differences in the policy document.
On his part, the member representing Guma State Constituency, Peter Uche appealed for the inclusion of psychological rehabilitation for IDPs who have experienced trauma.
He expressed delight that the state government’s efforts would provide opportunities for displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes.
Uche assured that the Assembly would continue to support policies that provide succor to IDPs.
