Sequel to the recent attacks in some villages of Plateau State, which claimed the lives of over 200 persons and displaced thousands, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called on the Federal Government to immediately set up a mental health centre in the Internally Displaced Persons camps.
The called was made by Chairman of the Association in Plateau, Dr. Titus Dajel, at one of the IDP camps at COCIN Church Heipang in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of the State.
The medical personnel offered free medical service to over 3,000 IDPs, mostly women and children.
Dajel explained that setting up of the mental structures in the state will address the mental health challenges caused by the crisis.
The association also donated relief materials to the IDPs – foodstuffs, clothing and toiletries among other items.
According to the Chairman, “The health clinic was aimed at providing an organized health care service to those in the camps.
“We are worried about the consequences of such crisis especially as it affects the health sector.”
He said the doctors were on ground to attend to the immediate needs of the IDPs, stressing that subsequently, more doctors will visit until the victims leave the camp.
Speaking, Coordinator of the camp and Chairman Regional Church Council of COCIN Heipang, Reverend Davou Gyang appreciated the doctors for their assistance.
He lamented that running of the camp has not been easy.
The cleric said: “All the IDPs want is for Government to rebuild their homes as well as provide adequate security to enable them go back to their main sources of livelihood which is farming”.
The thousands of IDPs taking refuge at the COCIN Church Heipang are mainly fom XLand, Gana, Dorowa Rukun, Rezar areas of Plateau.
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