By Our Correspondent
The Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Borno State are supposed to be a refuge for victims of insurgency, offering them shelter, food, and the hope of rebuilding their lives. However, a recent development has sparked controversy and drawn the attention of Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum.
The governor, while addressing a gathering at the Shehu of Borno’s palace, expressed shock and dismay over reports that a man who arrived at an IDP camp with his wife has since added three more wives to his household, making a total of four. Governor Zulum lamented the abuse of resources and the strain such actions place on the state’s already limited humanitarian provisions.
An Unusual Growth in Household
The man in question reportedly fled his insurgency-ravaged village several years ago with his sole wife. However, life at the IDP camp brought unexpected changes to his marital status. Leveraging the availability of free food, shelter, and medical care provided at the camp, he married three additional women over time.
While polygamy is culturally and religiously accepted in the region, the governor questioned the appropriateness of such actions in a setting meant to prioritize recovery and survival.
“IDP camps are not meant to become havens for opportunistic behavior. This case highlights a misuse of resources that could otherwise support more vulnerable families,” Governor Zulum remarked.
Strain on Resources and Accountability
The incident has reignited debates about the challenges faced in managing IDP camps. Humanitarian workers report that food and resources meant for displaced families are often stretched thin, leaving many families to struggle with basic necessities. The actions of individuals like this man, who expand their households without consideration for the impact on the camp’s limited resources, exacerbate the crisis.
Governor Zulum called for stricter measures to ensure accountability within the camps. He urged camp managers and traditional leaders to step up monitoring and avoid scenarios that promote dependency or misuse of aid.
Community Reactions
The local community has expressed mixed feelings about the situation. Some sympathize with the man, citing the harsh realities of life in displacement and the human need for companionship. Others, however, agree with the governor, emphasizing that the focus should remain on survival and rebuilding lives.
“While marriage is a personal matter, this case highlights the need for better management in IDP camps. People should not take undue advantage of the humanitarian support provided,” said a community elder in Maiduguri.
Governor’s Warning
Governor Zulum issued a stern warning, stating that his administration would not tolerate any behavior that undermines the purpose of IDP camps. He reiterated the need for displaced persons to focus on regaining stability and preparing to return to their communities once conditions permit.
“We are doing our best to provide for displaced persons, but it is important that everyone contributes to the solution and not the problem,” he added.
This incident underscores the complexities of managing displacement crises, particularly in regions where cultural norms and humanitarian interventions intersect. Governor Zulum’s administration continues to work towards closing IDP camps and resettling displaced persons in dignified and sustainable ways, but such challenges persist as obstacles to progress.
About The Author
