From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
Death toll from recent floods in Benue State has hit 24 even as over 134,000 persons in 44 communities across 11 local government areas have been displaced.
Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Emmanuel Shior disclosed this while briefing journalists during the monthly distribution of relief materials to IDPs in the state.
He lamented the neglect of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State saying those in IDP camps in Bornu State were enjoying Federal Government support and from other international humanitarian partners.
He said while over 200 international humanitarian partners were intervening in Bornu State, only 10 were partnering with Benue State.
He also expressed worry over et failure of the Federal Government to provide security for IDPs in Benue State saying they were vulnerable to further attacks by marauding herdsmen.
He said it was the responsibility of the Federal Government to secure lives of its citizens, assuring the state government was working with security agencies to provide security for those in IDPs in the state.
He said rice, noodles and various other grains had been distributed to those in the camps.
He appreciated individuals and organisations that have come to the aid of flood victims and IDPs in Benue State, especially the Church of Christ of the Latter Day Saints and NEMA bad appealed for assistance from other international agencies.