Benue Lawmaker Raises Alarm Over “Genocide-Level” Violence, Says IDP Figures Underreported

According to a report by Daily Post on Thursday, December 11, 2025, Terseer Ugbor, the Member representing the Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency of Benue State, has warned that the scale of violence in the state is far worse than officially reported, with the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) likely understated.

Ugbor said the humanitarian crisis unfolding in several parts of Nigeria reflects “genocide taking place,” comparing the gravity of the situation to historical atrocities such as the Darfur genocide, violence in southern Congo, and the Holocaust.

He stated:
“The truth of the matter is there is genocide taking place in many parts of Nigeria. When we think about genocide, we remember the Darfur genocide, the southern Congo, the genocide against the Jews by the Nazis. So it brings back very negative memories of what genocide actually is.”

The lawmaker noted that thousands of families have been displaced, many left without shelter, food, healthcare, or access to education as schools and public facilities remain shut down. He added that children and the elderly are increasingly vulnerable, while local authorities lack the resources to provide adequate support.

Ugbor further explained that persistent attacks have crippled farming and commercial activities, worsening food insecurity across rural and urban areas. Markets have been abandoned, and transportation between communities has become unsafe due to frequent assaults.

He said security agencies are struggling to contain the situation, as the attacks appear coordinated and occur regularly, limiting law enforcement’s ability to respond.

Calling for urgent humanitarian intervention, Ugbor stressed the need for accurate IDP data to ensure effective aid distribution. He urged both government and non-governmental organizations to intensify efforts to assist displaced persons and restore stability in affected communities.