Evangelist Tor Uja, former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, has demanded the immediate shutdown of all Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Nigeria, branding them as “a massive fraud” that enriches a few while keeping actual victims in misery.
He made this statement on Monday, the 14th of July, 2025, during a gathering of Christian leaders from various denominations at the Mission House International Headquarters in Makurdi.
Uja’s position followed his visits to camps in Yelewata and Makurdi, where he reviewed the conditions of displaced persons.
“We want the Benue State government, in conjunction with the Federal Government, to close down IDP camps right now,” Uja declared.
“None of these camps has been productive. They were meant to be temporary, but have turned into long-term destruction. Every IDP camp is a fraud and a destructive element.”
He criticized the continued existence of these camps, saying they have failed their intended purpose and now only worsen the suffering of the people forced to live in them.
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He urged authorities to redirect efforts toward rebuilding destroyed villages and resettling victims in safe, well-planned communities close to where they originally lived.
Uja also held the Federal Government responsible for not tackling the ongoing violence from herdsmen and bandits with enough resolve.
Citing Israel and the United States, he pointed to other nations that have taken strong action against internal threats.
“We need a new way of looking at our people and their environment,” he said, adding “and bringing decisive action that will enable them not only to live in peace but also to produce for development.”
He encouraged Christian leaders to step up support for affected communities by partnering with traditional leaders and relevant institutions to address pressing needs in healthcare, education, and child welfare.