The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have begun distributing relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Belegete, a border community in Obanliku Local Government Area. The displacement occurred after an attack by the Ambazonian separatist group from neighboring Cameroon a few months ago.
The official flag-off ceremony was led by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Peter Odey, who emphasized the state’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by displaced citizens. Represented by his Head of Personal Staff, Chris Ojikpon, Odey reaffirmed Governor Bassey Otu’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and peaceful coexistence of all citizens. He urged NEMA and SEMA to ensure that the relief materials reach those most in need, alleviating the hardships faced by the displaced individuals.
Mr. James Anam, Director General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, praised the Belegete community for their patience and peaceful conduct following the attack. He also acknowledged the Red Cross Society of Nigeria for assisting in assessing the damage and thanked NEMA and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) for their collaborative efforts in providing essential support.
A five-member committee, led by Mrs. Mary Ebun, Head of the Obanliku Local Government Administration, has been tasked with overseeing the equitable distribution of the relief items. The committee has been instructed to distribute the materials fairly, without regard to political affiliations.
Community representatives expressed their gratitude to both the Nigerian and Cross River State governments, as well as their partners, for their compassion and efforts to alleviate the suffering of the displaced. They assured that the relief materials, which include food, cash, mattresses, clothing, and other essentials, would be distributed fairly among the IDPs.