Chief Mike Ozekhome, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and human rights lawyer, has called on the Federal Government to allocate a special budget for vulnerable people in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps across the country. Ozekhome made the appeal during a visit to the Durumi IDP camp in Abuja’s Area I on Tuesday to mark his 67th birthday.
He stressed the need for the government to create a yearly budget for vulnerable members of society, warning that failure to do so would continue to foster a dangerous segment of the population. Ozekhome explained that many young people growing up in these camps, feeling deprived and neglected, may eventually resort to violence.
“When these children grow up and realize society has denied them basic privileges, they may take up arms,” Ozekhome cautioned. “No one gainfully employed would live in the forest and waylay people. Many bandits are involved in these acts as payback for what they perceive as an unkind and unaccommodating society.”
He emphasized that in order to build a just and equitable society, the government must step in with welfare programs for these deprived communities. He referenced Section 14 of the Constitution, which mandates the welfare and security of citizens, urging the government to fulfill this responsibility.
Ozekhome, who visited the camp with his wife, children, and well-wishers, chose to celebrate his birthday with the IDPs to show solidarity, especially in the current challenging times. During the visit, he distributed food items, soft drinks, and bottled water.
A beneficiary, Mrs. Jumai Ibrahim, expressed gratitude, saying, “My family and I cannot remember the last time we ate rice. God used the celebrant to bless us. I pray for more blessings and long life for him.”
Ozekhome also encouraged private organizations and well-meaning Nigerians to continue supporting less fortunate members of society. “The situation in the camp is very pathetic,” he said, explaining his decision to celebrate at the Durumi IDP camp.
