Rape, abuse in IDPs camps inexcusable, says Saraki

Senate President Bukola Saraki has said the increasing cases of rape, abuse, diversion of supplies and corruption in Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs’) camps are inexcusable.

In a statement yesterday by his media office, Saraki pledged the cooperation of the Senate in ensuring the quick passage of bills to help address the plight of IDPs.

He spoke when the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), led by Mrs. Angele Dikongue-Atangana, visited him at the National Assembly, Abuja.

His words: “It is disheartening and heartless when you hear of corruption in the supply of food items, when you see malnutrition and mortality in IDPs’ camps.

“When you see malnourished children and you know there can be speedy recovery when the necessary drugs and nutritional items are provided with the necessary food items.”

Saraki pledged the readiness of the National Assembly to cooperate with the commission in addressing challenges facing the IDPs, adding that the Senate would work with the House of Representatives to pass legislation to enhance the welfare of IDPs.

He assured the visitors of the Senate’s resolve to facilitate the domestication of the Kampala Convention on Statelessness and Protection of Refugees.

Mrs. Dikongue-Atangana recounted efforts of the UNHCR to rally support for the domestication of the Kampala convention in the troubled regions within the country.

She added that the UNHCR is planning a workshop for lawmakers on their role in internal displacement.

According to her, the workshop will focus on creating awareness among members regarding international standards on IDPs’ protection.(The Nation)