The Benue State Government has announced the distribution of N1.275 billion in private donations to victims of attacks on Yelwata Community, as part of a week-long relief programme for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The disclosure was made on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Deborah Aber, who chairs the Technical Committee on interventions for affected residents. Aber said the funds were contributed by individuals and organisations and would be used to meet both immediate and long-term needs of the victims.

According to Aber, the distribution of food and non-food items began on Friday, marking the official start of a series of activities aimed at ensuring orderly and effective support for IDPs. In addition, construction work is ongoing on new houses in a cluster settlement for the community, and 1,000 displaced persons are set to benefit from conditional cash transfers to help restore livelihoods.

“Beyond relief items, these donations have facilitated other critical interventions to improve the well-being and dignity of IDPs. This includes enhanced nutrition support for children, pregnant and nursing mothers, and strengthened camp-level services,” Aber said.

She also highlighted a major infrastructure project supported by donors and development partners: the construction of a water treatment plant in Naka, Gwer-West Local Government Area. The facility will provide safe and clean water for both IDPs and surrounding host communities, representing a sustainable solution to improve public health and promote peaceful coexistence.

Aber reiterated that Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration prioritises the welfare, safety, and dignity of displaced persons and is committed to transitioning from emergency relief measures to durable solutions.

The Yelwata attacks in June resulted in the deaths of at least 100 people, with many more reported missing. Amnesty International condemned the violence, stating that “the horrifying killing of over 100 people by gunmen that invaded Yelwata shows the security measures government claims to be implementing in the state are not working,” and called on authorities to end the bloodshed and bring perpetrators to justice.