Internally Displaced Persons In Maiduguri Go On Rampage In Maiduguri, Block Highway

Hungry, thirsty, sick and weather-beaten, a group of rampaging IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) numbering about 500 decided to take their fate into their own hands today by occupying the city of Maiduguri.

Vanguard reports that the rampaging IDP’s went on protest against their apparent neglect by government officials. The number of displaced persons has risen in recent years due to the carnage and attacks by the Boko Haram Sect in North East Nigeria.

The IDPs consisting of majorly women and children from different camps, invaded the streets of Maiduguri and barricaded the city’s main entry point. This resulted in a serious gridlock along the Kano-Maiduguri highway.

Though security officials are seen around the IDPs, they kept a good distance from the angry crowd.

Emergency and government officials have been reported to leave the displaced persons in a state of neglect. Several times, Nigerian officials have been accused of diverting items meant for IDP’s welfare for personal use.