UNICEF decry girls’ abuse in Benue IDP camps

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised concern over the abuse of displaced girls and women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Benue State. UNICEF, in collaboration with the JASPI Health and Gender Initiative, raised the alarm during a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with adolescent boys and girls on Social Asset Building towards […]

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised concern over the abuse of displaced girls and women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Benue State.

UNICEF, in collaboration with the JASPI Health and Gender Initiative, raised the alarm during a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with adolescent boys and girls on Social Asset Building towards Prevention and Response to Violence Against Children (VAC) in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the UNICEF Child Protection Specialist, Enugu Field Office, Victor Atuchukwu, a JASPI caseworker, Phoebe Nyiekaa, confirmed cases of sexual abuse in the camp, noting that she was currently handling a rape case involving an IDP girl.

She said the focus group discussions were part of a broader collaboration to support IDPs through psychosocial activities, establishing safe spaces, raising awareness on protection issues, and providing essential services.