The Irigwe Chiefdom in Plateau State’s Bassa Local Government Area is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis as ongoing attacks continue to devastate local communities.
Years of violence have resulted in mass casualties, displacement, and severe socio-economic challenges.
According to the Irigwe Development Association (IDA) Women Wing, the persistent attacks have left 452 women widowed, while 1,788 women have lost their primary means of livelihood.
Additionally, the crisis has orphaned 8,744 children, intensifying the burden on already struggling families. The conflict has also led to the loss of breadwinners for 490 individuals, deepening financial hardships across the region.
“Women who lost their means of livelihood are 1,788, while orphans as a result of the attacks are 8,744. While those who lost their breadwinners are 490.”
“Widows whose husbands were killed during attacks are 452, while the total number of widows in the chiefdom is 1,752.”
During the inaugural “Out Mburu Rigwe” (Irigwe Women’s Day) event in Miango, held in line with International Women’s Day, IDA Women Wing President, Mary Dickphar, highlighted the devastating impact of the crisis.
She described the statistics as alarming, stating that they have given the association’s leadership “sleepless nights.”
She further appealed to well-meaning individuals and organizations to step in with support, stressing the urgency of the humanitarian situation.
The Irigwe community has endured a prolonged cycle of attacks over the past two decades, often linked to conflicts with Fulani herdsmen. These assaults have escalated over time, resulting in extensive displacement and loss of life.
The continued insecurity has also disrupted economic activities, with many residents losing their homes and means of survival.
Widows in the region face severe challenges beyond the immediate loss of their spouses. Cultural and systemic barriers often limit their access to resources such as farmland, which is critical for their livelihood.
Despite existing laws designed to protect widows’ rights, many continue to experience discrimination, further exacerbating their vulnerability.
The growing number of orphans adds another layer of concern. Many children left without parental care are at increased risk of exploitation, lack of education, and psychological trauma.
With community resources already overstretched, external support is needed to provide these children with essential services, including education, healthcare, and mental health support.
The displacement crisis continues to worsen as more families flee their homes due to recurrent attacks. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Plateau State often live in overcrowded camps, where access to food, water, and healthcare remains inadequate.
Many IDPs face the risk of malnutrition and disease as state resources struggle to meet the rising demand for humanitarian aid.
The IDA Women Wing’s call for assistance underscores the urgent need for intervention in Irigwe Chiefdom. A coordinated response from government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and international partners is critical to addressing both the immediate and long-term challenges facing the affected population.
