In a recent roundtable discussion, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives highlighted the dire situation in the South-East region, where over 268,000 people have been displaced due to natural disasters. These internally displaced individuals are currently accommodated in 158 tents across affected communities.
The discussion, themed “Through their eyes: A call to action, addressing humanitarian challenges in the South-East,” aimed to foster partnerships and find sustainable solutions to the ecological challenges facing the region. The Deputy Speaker emphasized the urgent need for clean water, shelter, healthcare, and education in states like Enugu, Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi.
The crisis in the South-East is multifaceted, with displacement, violence, and ecological issues like gully erosion contributing to the humanitarian crisis. Families are living in makeshift camps with inadequate access to basic necessities, posing health risks and challenges to their dignity.
The Deputy Speaker acknowledged the support of international organizations in tackling ecological disasters and providing relief to the affected population. He underscored the importance of immediate intervention and long-term strategies to restore stability and hope in the region.
He also highlighted the need for attention in areas such as education, healthcare, nutrition, mental health support, gender-based violence, and shelter. Emphasizing that the crisis in the South-East is a national concern, he pledged to work towards creating a conducive environment for humanitarian efforts.
During the discussion, various agency heads expressed shock at the magnitude of the ecological challenges and human crisis in the region. They committed to collaborating with the Deputy Speaker’s Office to address these pressing issues and provide assistance to those in need.