Farmers’ Association Appeals for Logistics, Food, and Medical Aid for Return Journey.

Farmers’ Association Appeals for Logistics, Food, and Medical Aid for Return Journey.

A farmers’ organization known as the United Farmers’ Association Kadarko has called on authorities at all levels to facilitate the return of approximately 14,718 displaced farmers from Nasarawa State, who are currently residing in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Benue State. The appeal comes amid ongoing concerns over security and the plight of farmers displaced following a violent attack in June 2025.

The displacement was triggered by an attack on Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, which resulted in several fatalities. The attack affected farmers from various communities in Nasarawa’s Southern Senatorial District, especially those from Kadarko in Keana Local Government Area. The close geographical proximity of Yelwata and Kadarko, sharing a common boundary, heightened fears among farmers of Tiv extraction, prompting many to flee their homes.

Dennis Denen Gbongbon, chairman of the association, disclosed after a visit to the Lafia Emirate Council that nearly 15,000 farmers from 314 communities had been displaced and are now seeking refuge in Benue. Many of these farmers abandoned their ancestral lands, farms, and livelihoods out of fear of further violence. Gbongbon explained that the displaced individuals have endured harsh conditions, with some spending over six months in IDP camps such as the one at the International Market in Makurdi. He emphasized that efforts are ongoing to facilitate their safe return.

While over 14,000 farmers are registered in officially recognized IDP camps, Gbongbon revealed that many remain unaccounted for. “About 80 percent of the displaced persons are not in camps,” he said. Some are living with relatives, others have scattered across host communities or moved farther away to seek farmland. The association, which has members across Nasarawa, Benue, Taraba, and Kogi states, remains committed to protecting and supporting its members.

The group has scheduled the farmers’ return for January 31, 2026, in coordination with community leaders and security agencies. Gbongbon stated that community consultations revealed a consensus that life in IDP camps is undignified. Returning would allow the farmers to begin healing and rebuilding their lives. The association appealed to the governments of Nasarawa and Benue, traditional rulers, security agencies, and benefactors to support the initiative with transportation, food supplies, and relief materials.

Gbongbon also urged Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule to provide urgent assistance, including food, medical supplies, and psychosocial support, as many displaced farmers remain traumatized and unable to harvest their destroyed farmlands. Previously, the association wrote to the governor through the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (retired), requesting a formal reception for the returning IDPs and logistical support for transportation.

During their visit to the emir’s palace, the Secretary of the Lafia Emirate Council, Hudu Mailafia, assured the farmers of the council’s full support in ensuring their safe and successful return. The collective efforts aim to restore dignity and stability to the displaced farmers and help them resume their agricultural livelihoods.