State Emergency Management Agency Faces Snake Bite Crisis Among IDPs
The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) raised urgent concerns during the recent distribution of relief materials to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue State. In a statement, he highlighted that 15 displaced individuals have required medical treatment due to snake bites, underscoring the alarming prevalence of this issue.
Addressing the attendees, the SEMA Secretary noted that the financial burden of treating snake bite victims has reached millions of naira. He stated, "In recent months, we’ve struggled with the tragic challenge of snake bites affecting our IDP population."
He expressed relief at the successful treatment of over 15 cases across various camps, attributing this achievement to the prompt response of health teams and collaborative support from partners.
To mitigate the risk of snake encounters, the agency has implemented fumigation across all camps, including the Ikyogen camp. The SEMA Secretary called upon both local and international partners to continue providing assistance in addressing the snake bite crisis.
In a positive development, he announced that the World Bank would soon initiate the construction of 50 units of shelter in Nyihemba, located in Kwande Local Government Area. Additionally, plans are underway for the agency to launch agricultural projects for IDPs in Kwande, Logo, and Gwer-West local government areas in the near future.
