IOM and Benue are training 200 officers in response to gender-based violence in IDP camps

Ahead of the expected flood, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Benue State Government have trained 200 security personnel on dealing with Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

Mediatrix Barengayabo, Head of IOM Benue Sub-Office, said this on Saturday at the conclusion of the four-day training in Makurdi, the state capital.

Ms Barengayabo said the training was aimed at building the capacities of the trainees to handle cases of GBV and sexual exploitation in IDP camps in case the flood occurs.

She said that although the officers already have professional training to function, they still need some training to effectively respond to the people during disasters.

Ms Barengayabo said the training would help the officers deal with all forms of GBV and prevent sexual exploitation, abuse and human trafficking when the cases arise while on duty.

According to her, IOM is committed to supporting disaster management preparedness efforts, especially as the water level in the Benue River is at a critical stage.

“In doing so, the knowledge you gain here will help you respond effectively to the needs of women, men and children who may be affected by GBV or sexual exploitation and abuse.

“I am confident that you will train here with the ability to train others and have conversations that will help them think differently.

“That is why IOM stands ready to support the training for the trainers so that when we are no longer there, there is capacity for continuity,” she said.

The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Aondowase Kunde, urged the participants to use the knowledge acquired during the training in carrying out their duties.

Mr. Kunde said the state government was working with the IOM to ensure that such cases were not recorded in the so-called camps in the state.

The Commissioner regretted that in some cases officers charged with protecting people took advantage of them and urged participants to educate their colleagues on respecting human dignity.

He called on the Federal Government to expeditiously complete the Kashimbila Dam to mitigate the impact of the release of water from the Lodo Dam on Nigerians.

Commissioner for Water Resources and Climate Change Odoh Ugwu said the water level of the Benue River is now at 10.5 metres, which he said is stable.

Mr Ugwu, represented by Dominic Achioko, Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, said there will be danger if the water level reaches eleven metres.

(NAN)