ESSEI decries poor condition of 3,919 IDPs in Kaduna

Kaduna State-based non-governmental organisation, Eko Smile Support and Empowerment Initiative (ESSEI), has raised the alarm over poor living conditions of 3,919 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in one of the camps in the state.

The victims comprise 1,327 girls, 1,036 boys and 1,556 adults.

Located at Mararaba Rido in Chikun Local Council, the camp hosts survivors of banditry and terrorism in Anguwan Rimi Kaso, Wako, Suleja Kaso, Telele, Anguwan Sarari, Anguwan Gaida, Kaso Kurmi, Anguwan Zhibada and neighbouring communities of Chikun, Kajuru and Kachia local councils.

The figure, which was compiled in December 2022, The Guardian gathered, might have increased, following renewed banditry in the state.

According to reports, there is no economic activity to keep the IDPs busy; hence, they are exposed to depression and despondency.

Founder of ESSEI, Blessing Sunday, said her organisation had, last month, visited the displaced persons’ camp and saw the sub-human conditions they live in, and subsequently organised a humanitarian outreach for free medical checks, distribution of clothes, drinks and talk on depression.

Her words: “Some of the IDPs live in uncompleted buildings, while others find shelter in any available space that benevolent villagers and residents of nearby communities avail them. Those who managed to get accommodation cannot afford the rent.

“These groups of Nigerians rely on the goodwill of poor villagers in neighbouring communities, efforts of the coordinators led by Adams Sule and the community chief for feeding and clothing.”