Vice President Kashim Shettima recently graced the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Gwada, Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, with his much-anticipated presence. His aircraft touched down at the Ahmed Bola Tinubu International Airport in Minna around 11:45 am, where he was met with the usual fanfare by Niger State Governor Umaru Bago, his deputy Yakubu Garba, and a collection of other government dignitaries eager to showcase their dedication to the people, or at least the cameras.
Shettima then made his way to the IDP camp, which has unfortunately become the new “home” for thousands displaced by both a brutal surge in banditry and the recurring floods that seem to have no end in sight. With a predictable display of concern, the Vice President stood in solidarity with the victims, promising, yet again that the Federal Government is ready to step in and provide the necessary aid. At this point, one wonders if the displaced persons haven’t heard such reassurances on countless occasions before.
In his well-rehearsed speech, Shettima expressed his “deep concern” for the plight of the victims and assured them that they have not been forgotten. The Federal Government, he claimed, is committed to ensuring that aid flows to those affected by these twin crises. In fact, he even hinted that the government isn’t just focused on immediate relief, but also on “long-term solutions.” Well, that’s refreshing, except that we’ve been hearing the same song for years, and yet, banditry and floods continue to ravage the region like clockwork.
Shettima’s visit, of course, also served as an opportunity to remind us that the government is allegedly determined to ease the suffering of these displaced individuals. The reality on the ground, however, suggests that these promises remain largely rhetorical. The victims can only hope that this time, the government will actually deliver on its pledges.
Governor Bago, in his remarks, seized the opportunity to offer a well-timed “thank you” to Shettima for his physical presence, as if that alone is enough to fix the root problems plaguing his state. He reiterated the purpose of the visit, to sympathize with those affected by floods and insecurity. Sympathy is nice, but real action is better.
According to state report, 46,853 individuals are displaced, with 5,863 households directly impacted. Among these figures, approximately 5,863 men and 23,450 women are left in suspense while 17,540 children bear the brunt of this ongoing disaster, floods, banditry, and communal conflict. These are not just numbers; they are a glaring testament to the government’s inability to curb these crises. Yet, we continue to hear the same recycled promises.
As the government mouths platitudes, one can’t help but wonder when, or if, meaningful action will ever follow.
