Niger IDPs Focus on Home Return Over 2027 Elections

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Niger State have expressed that their primary concern is returning to their ancestral lands rather than participating in the 2027 general elections. The IDP camps, particularly in Shiroro Local Government Area, house over 5,000 individuals displaced by terrorists and bandits.

Livinus Danjuma, a pastor from the Mountain of Fire Ministry, has been visiting the Gwada IDP camp for three years and noted the growing population due to ongoing violence. He highlighted the severe challenges faced by the IDPs, including inadequate food and sanitation facilities, and a lack of employment opportunities.

Aisha Abdullahi, an inmate from Allawa, shared her experience of losing five relatives during a bandit attack and emphasized her disinterest in the elections, stating her only wish is for the government to facilitate their return home. The IDPs feel neglected by the government, which has made unfulfilled promises regarding their resettlement.