The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu has lamented that severe humanitarian crisis in the Southeast has left over 268,000 persons internally displaced.
The displaced persons, said Kalu, now find solace in 158 camps in communities in the region.
He lamented that their condition is further worsened by lack of access to clean water, healthcare, and education.
The deputy speaker, at a roundtable discussion with International non-governmental organisations (INGOs) in Abuja yesterday, attributed their displacement to violence, and ecological challenges.
The programme was titled “Through Their Eyes: A Call To Action, Addressing Humanitarian Challenges In The Southeast.”
The Office of the Deputy Speaker organised it in conjunction with the Peace In Southeast Project (PISE-P)
Emphasising the need for collaborative efforts to provide immediate humanitarian relief and sustainable development solutions, Kalu called for support from INGOs) and government agencies.
He said: “A special welcome to you to this roundtable with INGOs, a convening that underscores the pivotal role of collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian, ecological, and systemic challenges.
“Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis, characterised by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges.
“Report presented today (yesterday) underscores the grim realities: over 268,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are spread across 158 camps and affected communities.”
The states of Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi bear the brunt of this crisis with precarious living conditions leaving many without access to clean water, adequate shelter, healthcare, and education.
