NASARAWA RETURNEES APPEAL FOR GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AFTER YEARS OF DISPLACEMENT 21-05-25
By Sadiq Aminu Following the return of over 40,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes in Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, residents have appealed to the government at all levels and relevant agencies for urgent intervention. They are calling for the provision of basic amenities, including healthcare services, food supplies, and clean water.
The National Chairman of the Basa Cultural and Development Union, Mr. Dansabo Nyitso Friday, made the appeal during a press briefing in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
Toto LGA was engulfed in a violent communal crisis between 2017 and 2018, resulting in significant loss of lives and property. The conflict displaced thousands of residents, many of whom fled to neighboring states, including the Federal Capital Territory.
However, following the assumption of office by Governor Abdullahi Sule in 2019, the state government established a series of peace and reconciliation initiatives aimed at restoring calm and stability in the area. These efforts have led to the safe return of most displaced persons, some after seven years in exile.
Addressing journalists, Mr. Friday commended Governor Sule for his role in restoring peace but stressed that more needs to be done to meet the critical needs of the returnees. He urged stakeholders, security agencies, and local authorities to collaborate with the communities to ensure peaceful reclamation of lands that were occupied during their displacement.
Mr. Friday also called on the returning population to fully engage with the peace-building and reconstruction efforts initiated by the state government, emphasizing that this is essential for reviving economic activities across the local government.
The immediate past Chairman of the Basa Cultural and Development Union, Mr. Emmanuel Gbaji, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, justice, and equal opportunity for all residents, regardless of their backgrounds, in order to foster unity and a true sense of belonging.
Both leaders pledged the continued support of the Basa community in working with security agencies, government bodies, and traditional institutions to ensure lasting peace in Toto Local Government Area.