Ter Lumum
Makurdi
Thousands of families displaced by brutal attacks in several Local Government Areas of Benue State have begun returning to their ancestral homes, only to find their villages destroyed and struggling to rebuild amid challenges.
Our Correspondent, Francis Terlumun, reports that the affected areas include Agatu, Gwer West, Guma, Makurdi, Logo, Kwande, Apa, Katsina Ala, Ukum, and Otukpa, among others.
In Gwer West Local Government Area, residents have returned to communities like Anguhal, AgbuCity, Agberagba, Tse Aji in Mbakyoudu, Jimba, Ahume, Ukusu, Atondir, and Gyaluwa.
Returnees, including Mr. Mandaki Mathew, a father of four, and Madam Josephine Ubwa, a trader, describe the living conditions as “bad”, with struggles to access basic necessities like food, water, and shelter.
“We are facing a lot of challenges, including lack of food, water, and shelter. We are appealing to the government to come to our aid and help us rebuild our communities,” Mr. Mathew said.
Madam Ubwa added, “We are trying to survive, but it’s tough. We need help to restart our lives.”
Residents are also concerned about the presence of herders in the area, with some expressing fear for their safety.
Despite the challenges, some residents remain hopeful that the government will come to their aid and help them rebuild their communities.
The President of the Tyoshin Socio-Cultural Organization, TDA, Chief Tiza Timothy Tarnongo, has commended the efforts of the government and encouraged communities to return home.
The Benue State Government has taken steps to restore livelihoods and rebuild communities in collaboration with partners with Efforts underway with the installation of bore holes in some returned areas.
