In response to the distressed call to support victims of the recent violent attacks in Yelwata, Benue State, N42.6 million has been raised for hundreds of displaced families to procure relief materials, such as mattresses, bedsheets, essential household items, foodstuff and groceries in large quantities for them.

The fund was raised by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos State chapter, in collaboration with Acts of Mercy and Sesor Empowerment Foundation, following the launch of what was described as the Benue Relief Campaign to mobilise support for the affected victims.

Chairman of PFN, Lagos chapter, Yemi Davids, who presented a detailed report on the funds raised, lamented the devastating assaults perpetrated by the unidentified assailants.

“The attacks were widely condemned, and several concerned individuals and organisations were reached out to for support.

“Our position is that instead of cursing the darkness, the Church must shine the light, hence the PFN Lagos partnered with Acts of Mercy and Sesor Empowerment Foundation to launch the Benue Relief Campaign with a view to mobilising support for the affected communities.

“We are happy to say that these relief materials procured with the money have been distributed to approximately 1,000 displaced families with a major focus on those in IDP camps within Yelwata and surrounding areas,” he said.

PFN Lagos Publicity Secretary and Director of Media, Rev. Tonye Oliver, said the fund was raised through generous contributions from churches and individuals across Lagos State, urging other faith-based and civic organisations to take similar bold steps to alleviate sufferings in the country with similar act of accountability.