- He highlighted the urgent need for intervention
More than 268,000 people have been displaced by natural disasters in Nigeria’s South-East region, according to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.
Speaking on Monday at a roundtable discussion in Abuja titled “Through Their Eyes: A Call to Action – Addressing Humanitarian Challenges in the South East”, Kalu revealed that the displaced are living in 158 makeshift camps across affected communities in the region.
The states of Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi are the hardest hit, with residents facing severe shortages of clean water, proper shelter, healthcare, and education. Organised by the Office of the Deputy Speaker in collaboration with the Peace in South East Project, the event sought to forge partnerships and develop sustainable solutions to ecological challenges.
“The South-East geo-political zone of Nigeria is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis, characterised by displacement, violence, and ecological challenges,” Kalu said. “Natural disasters like gully erosion have destroyed homes, leaving families in makeshift camps or overcrowded host communities, exposed to health risks, insecurity, and a loss of dignity.”
He highlighted the urgent need for intervention, calling for immediate relief and long-term strategies to address the crisis and restore stability to the region.
Kalu praised the contributions of international organisations, noting their efforts in food distribution, healthcare, and advocacy for marginalised groups. “Your interventions have touched the lives of millions, providing critical relief and long-term opportunities,” he said.
As a representative of Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, Kalu also committed to advancing legislative and policy measures to address the region’s challenges. “This crisis demands not only immediate intervention but also sustainable strategies to restore stability and hope,” he added.
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