Benue State faces an imminent humanitarian crisis as rising insecurity and forecasted floods threaten lives, farms, and Nigeria’s food supply. Residents plead for government action as attacks displace thousands and hydrological data warns of another devastating flood season. Authorities promise early warnings and shelters, but many remain unconvinced.
Benue State, Nigeria — Once revered as Nigeria’s "Food Basket," Benue State now teeters on the brink of a dual catastrophe. A surge in deadly violence and an impending flood crisis have left communities gripped by fear, with both human and environmental disasters threatening to devastate an already fragile region.
According to the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook released by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Benue is among 30 states projected to face severe flooding in the coming rainy season. The forecast places more than 1,200 communities nationwide at high risk — with Benue among the most vulnerable due to its proximity to River Benue and years of unchecked environmental degradation.
For many in Makurdi and rural districts, the flood warning is nothing new — it’s a seasonal trauma. The catastrophic 2012 floods displaced over 100,000 residents, while later inundations in 2017, 2020, and 2022 further decimated farmland and livelihoods. With heavy rains looming, many fear history will repeat itself — or worsen.
“I’ve lost my yam farm to floods before, and now they say it’s going to be worse,” said Elder Godwin Abuul, a community leader in Logo. “We’re not safe from floods, and we’re not safe from attackers. What else are we supposed to endure?”
Beyond nature's wrath, Benue continues to reel from escalating violence. In recent months, coordinated attacks by armed groups have forced thousands from their homes. Entire villages in Guma, Agatu, and Otukpo have been razed, leaving many residents seeking refuge in overcrowded and under-resourced makeshift camps.
Caught in the crosshairs of two disasters, families find themselves with nowhere to turn. “The flood will destroy our farms, and if we flee to town, we face killings,” said Ichalefu Oyiwodu, a farmer from Agatu. “We’re trapped.”
The state government, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, has begun mobilizing a response. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is reportedly on high alert, and temporary shelters are being prepared. “We’re focusing on early warnings, real-time alerts, and clearing blocked waterways,” said the Commissioner for Water Resources and Environment, noting partnerships with federal agencies and support from international organizations.
But for those who have lived through years of unfulfilled promises, hope remains elusive.
“Every year, they tell us to move. Move where? We have no money, no place,” said Eunice Akpa of North Bank, Makurdi. “We are just praying the water spares us this time.”
As torrential rains inch closer and violence persists unabated, the people of Benue are bracing for a season that could define their survival.
