AN ANALYSIS OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE IN IDP CAMPS IN GUMA LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF BENUE STATE
Igue Terungwa , Francis Onu, PhD , Bernard Hunvounopwa Basson and Vrati Sawuluma Nzonzo
Volume 13 Issue 1
Abstract
Gender based violence is a common social problem in the world, in Nigeria especially in the North Central parts of Nigeria which has witnessed large number of displacement in recent years, due to security challenges involving farmers and headers. There has been an increase in the cases of domestic violence, sexual exploitation, forced early marriage, and rape since the spate of large displacement in Benue State especially Guma Local Government Area. The cases of gender based violence in holding camps are very frequent. This is an empirical analysis of gender based violent in the camps in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. It is a descriptive survey using qualitative methods to obtain data on the prevalence of gender based violence as well as the causes and practices that predispose women in camps to violence. The findings revealed that there indeed exist gender based violence against women in the camps, that causes of gender based violence included but not limited to lack of economic opportunities for IDPs population resulting to commercial and exploitative sex being one of the few options for income generation to meet basic needs. The study then concludes that Camp management authorities should ensure equal access to food, health care for women. Developed mechanisms to ensure systematic monitoring of specific needs of the most vulnerable persons through provision for adequate security in the camps. Finally, some recommendations were made for camp authorities and the State Government notably the training of camp personnel on gender based issues and awareness creation. Keywords: Gender, Violent, IDP, Local Government
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