TheCable

The house of representatives has resolved to investigate the alleged cases of rape, extortion and diversion of relief materials in internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps across the country.

The resolution was sequel to a motion introduced during plenary on Wednesday by Hassan Saleh, f a lawmaker rom Benue state.

Saleh said stories abound of how IDPs in the country go through “harrowing experiences of rape committed against women and girls by men in the camps especially those who are supposed to protect them.”

He also alleged that there are cases of “sex-for-food and materials”, rampant pregnancy and abandonment of young mothers and their children in the various camps.

“There are also cases of pilfering of relief materials and extortion ravaging the camps,” Saleh said.

He recalled that the Human Rights Watch had reportedly written to various government agencies requesting their reaction to the various allegations but “has not received any response.”

He also said: “The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is mandated to provide emergency reliefs to victims of natural disasters and to assist in their rehabilitation, but NEMA has been unable to cope with the level of displacement.

“This house is concerned that the efforts of government concerning the care and protection of the IDPs is not enough, hence the need for government to do more to protect them.”

The lawmakers, therefore, mandated the house committee on IDPs, refugees and initiatives on north-east to investigate the matter and report back to them within eight weeks.