Amnesty International: Over 510,000 Displaced in Benue as IDP Camps Face Dire Conditions
Amnesty International has raised alarm over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Benue State, Nigeria, where over 510,000 people have been displaced due to persistent attacks by armed gunmen.
In a statement released on July 10, 2025, the rights group cited the June 14 attack on Yelewata town, which left more than 100 people dead and forced nearly 4,000 residents to flee. Amnesty reports that survivors are now living in overcrowded and unsanitary internally displaced persons (IDP) camps with limited access to clean water, food, sanitation, and healthcare.
“The Nigerian authorities have failed the people of Benue again and again,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. “Survivors are being subjected to fresh suffering in camps where basic needs are unmet, and impunity continues to embolden further violence.”
According to Amnesty’s field investigations in Gwer West, Agatu, Ukum, Kwande, Logo, Guma, and Makurdi, the violence follows a recurring pattern of night-time raids, indiscriminate gunfire, and brutal machete attacks. Many displaced individuals face separation from family members, lack of education, and limited medical services.
The organisation also expressed concern over gender-based violence and the collapse of school systems in the camps, noting that some makeshift schools have been shut for over three years.
Amnesty is urging the Nigerian government to implement the African Union’s Kampala Convention and provide immediate relief including food, shelter, healthcare, and education to displaced persons. It also called for accountability and justice for victims, warning that the lack of prosecution is fueling a cycle of impunity.
“Nigeria must uphold its obligations under international human rights law to protect the displaced and restore dignity to those affected by this crisis,” Sanusi stated.
Amnesty has monitored the security situation in Benue since 2016, documenting ongoing attacks by armed groups and herder-farmer clashes.
