James Iorpuu, the executive secretary, Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), wants development partners in the North-East to relocate to Benue and assist Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Mr Iorpuu made the appeal in an interview with journalists on Sunday in Jos.

According to him, the humanitarian crisis in Benue is worse than what is currently happening in Nigeria’s North-East due to insurgency and terrorism.

He said that with the persistent attacks on communities in Benue, many people had been killed and millions displaced and taking refuge in IDP camps.

Mr Iorpuu said that even with the uncommon commitment of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, meeting the needs of the IDPs had become a herculean task.

He noted Mr Alia’s commitment to the return of IDPs to their ancestral homes as soon as he assumed duties as governor.

“He is partnering with the federal government and other development partners in this regard.

“Recently, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Eradication launched cluster settlements for the IDPs in Benue State.

“For the welfare of the displaced population, he has stepped up the purchase of food and non-food items, and the recent batch was shared to them just last week.

“We have also been receiving relief materials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and some development partners who have been assisting us.

“These are the measures the governor has taken in collaboration with the Federal Government and some development partners to alleviate the sufferings of the people.

“However, this is still inadequate to efficiently meet the needs of the IDPs, and we are calling other development partners to relocate to Benue and assist us,” he appealed.

(NAN)