The Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, KADSEMA, Usman Mazadu, says at least 289,375 residents have been displaced by bandits across 12 LGAs in Kaduna.
Mazadu announced the figures on Wednesday during the flag-off of the distribution of palliatives at Maraban Kajuru, Kajuru LGA.
He noted that the activities of the bandits affected residents from 551 communities.
According to him, the figures are not just numbers, but statistics “that represent lives, dreams, and the enduring spirit of our people“.
He said 134 communities were affected by the activities of bandits while 26,345 individuals were displaced in Chikun LGA.
“In Birnin Gwari, 84 communities are affected with 70,893 displaced people and in numerous other communities across 12 other local governments,“ he said.
“We are here to initiate a significant undertaking, the flag-off of the distribution of relief materials to our brothers and sisters who have been displaced by the unfortunate events that have befallen some communities in our dear state.”
He said the distribution of the palliatives was a reaffirmation of the seven-point agenda of Uba Sani, the governor of Kaduna.
“Ladies and gentlemen, at this juncture, let us take a moment to reflect on the numbers that have brought us to these crossroads: 551 affected communities and 289,375 displaced persons are recorded across 12 local government areas. Therefore the need for support is critical.
“Our empathetic governor has answered the call and has factored this very important population into his N11.4 billion palliative programme,” he said.
He added that the palliatives will be extended to all the affected communities in the 12 LGAs.
