The Agagbe Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue is grappling with a critical situation, as the inmates raise alarm over a measles outbreak, severe malnutrition, and inadequate medical care within the camp.
In addition to these distressing conditions, the IDPs have voiced concern about the dire circumstances forcing pregnant women to resort to giving birth in unsanitary toilets due to the absence of medical assistance. This alarming practice has tragically resulted in the loss of newborn infants within the camp.
Desperate for intervention, the IDPs implored the state government, individuals of goodwill, and humanitarian organizations to extend their support. With infections spreading unchecked, coupled with scarcity of sustenance and proper medical attention, the camp faces the grim prospect of a spike in mortality rates if prompt action is not taken.
Camp Manager Jacob Ibaah lamented the dire state of affairs, highlighting the urgent need for assistance. He disclosed that two infants had lost their lives in recent days due to these distressing circumstances. “One baby was born prematurely, while the other lost its life during childbirth. These tragedies occurred last Sunday and Monday,” Ibaah recounted.
He further revealed, “The camp is currently plagued by hunger. Pregnant women cannot afford medical care, so they are delivering babies within the camp. Even finding a suitable place for childbirth presents challenges. There is a toilet constructed by Doctors Without Borders (MSF), which serves as the makeshift delivery room for many women here.”
Ibaah painted a grim picture of the situation, stating, “If they lack the funds to go to a hospital, they resort to the toilet. This is due to the cramped conditions in our rooms. It’s an extremely challenging situation. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is aware of these dire circumstances.”
Acting Executive Secretary of Benue SEMA, Mr. James Iorpuu, responded to the situation, sharing that “I allocated 200 bags of rice to them during the recent food distribution exercise.”
The Agagbe camp is reportedly housing thousands of IDPs in that region of the state, underscoring the urgency of addressing the pressing issues of medical care, nourishment, and living conditions that threaten the wellbeing of those who have already suffered greatly.
