Following a brutal assault, the government of Benue State has officially started the construction of lasting resettlement housing for displaced individuals from Yelwata.
A report by PREMIUM TIMES on 14 June 2025 detailed how armed terrorists invaded the Yelwata community in the Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, resulting in numerous fatalities, destruction of homes, and displacing thousands of residents.
Over 100 individuals reportedly lost their lives in the overnight attack, as stated by Amnesty International, which deemed the violence part of the "nearly daily bloodshed" impacting Benue State and urged the Nigerian authorities to enhance efforts in halting the violence and safeguarding rural communities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia was represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, during the flag-off event for the housing project, which took place on Thursday in Yelwata.
At the ceremony, Mr. Ode emphasized that this initiative is a tangible action in response to the devastation brought about by the violent encounter in June 2025.
"The disaster that befell Yelwata resulted in widespread loss of life, property destruction, and the displacement of entire families. The commencement of this project signifies not only a symbolic gesture but also our commitment to restore, rebuild, and resettle our populace with security and respect," he stated.
The governor noted that the funding for this initiative stems from various donations and interventions, including a notable contribution of N1 billion from Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, in addition to assistance from Nasarawa State, United Bank for Africa, the Department of State Services, alongside other collaborators.
A technical committee was established by Mr. Alia on 19 August 2025, headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Deborah Aber, to facilitate relief and resettlement for individuals displaced across the state.
Ms. Aber indicated that the committee has engaged specifically with the affected communities to ascertain their crucial needs. "At the onset, we pinpointed areas necessitating immediate intervention, prioritizing Yelwata due to the severity and ramifications of the incident," she noted.
The initial phase of the housing project aims to provide 62 two-bedroom units, adhering to international resettlement standards, with additional assistance planned for other impacted communities.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, characterized the project as a "milestone" in the state’s response to displacement, underscoring that the initiative focuses on reviving lives rather than merely constructing buildings.
The local government chair, Maurice Orwough, praised the backing from both federal and state authorities while requesting enhanced security measures in adjacent areas.
Cletus Upaa, a former lawmaker representing the Yelwata community, reiterated that residents would ensure meticulous supervision of the project for accountability and effective execution.
The community’s traditional leader, Tor Lobi, Moses Anagende, advocated for an extension of the housing initiative and the creation of job opportunities for local youth to foster long-lasting peace.
David Anifowose, the contractor assigned to the project, assured that the company is dedicated to delivering the work promptly and maintaining transparency. Representatives from civil society and international organizations, including the International Organisation for Migration, have committed to providing ongoing support, with intentions to establish a healthcare facility in the locality.
Photograph: Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, lays the foundation for housing to assist survivors of the Yelwata attack.
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