Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has said that more than 268,000 people have been rendered homeless in South East region due to natural disasters.
Gatekeepers News reports that Kalu disclosed this while speaking at a roundtable discussion with international non-governmental organisations in a programme titled “Through their eyes: A call to action, addressing humanitarian challenges in the South East” on Monday in Abuja.
The roundtable discussion which was organised by Office of the Deputy Speaker in conjunction with Peace In South East Project, aimed at exploring avenues for deeper partnerships, engendering resilience, and delivering sustainable solutions to ecological challenges facing the country.
Kalu noted that IDPs are camped in 158 tents in affected communities, adding that Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi states are the most affected, with many people lacking access to clean water, adequate shelter, healthcare, and education.
The Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State representative said the crisis in the region is characterised by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges, including natural disasters like gully erosion that have left many people homeless.
He said, “The Southeast geo-political zone of Nigeria is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis, characterised by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges.”
“Report presented today underscores the grim realities: over 268,000 internally displaced persons 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.”
“Shelter, in particular, remains a pressing concern. Families live in makeshift camps or overcrowded host communities and are exposed to health risks, insecurity, and a loss of dignity.”
“Natural disasters like gully erosion have destroyed homes, leaving little to return to. This crisis demands not only immediate intervention but also sustainable strategies to restore stability and hope.”
The deputy speaker recognised the role of international organisations in addressing challenges of ecological disasters, saying, “From food distribution to improving healthcare access, your interventions have touched the lives of millions. Additionally, your advocacy for marginalised groups, funding for local projects, and systemic support have provided critical relief and long-term opportunities.”
“As a representative of the National Assembly, I am deeply committed to championing legislative and policy frameworks that address these issues comprehensively.”
Speaking further, Kalu identified education, healthcare and nutrition, mental health support, gender-based violence and shelter, as the thematic areas that need urgent attention.”
Kali described crisis in the South East as a national concern, saying, “We, in government, pledge to facilitate an enabling environment for your work. This includes removing systemic barriers, enhancing security in affected regions, and providing a robust policy framework to guide interventions.”
“Together, we can bridge the gap between immediate humanitarian relief and sustainable development. I urge us all to remain steadfast in our shared mission. Let us align our resources, strategies, and resolve to build a Nigeria where no one is left behind, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Your insights and recommendations from today’s discussions will guide the formulation of evidence-based interventions.”
