Issues of Refugees and Displaced Persons in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper evaluates the state of internally displaced persons in Nigeria. Paramount objective of the paper anchors on examining the quantum leap and systemic loss of lives and properties in the country in recent times.  The study elicits its information gathering using an ethnographic approach, a semi-unstructured interview was purposefully conducted on some of the survivors of bomb attack on UN building at Abuja who are resident of Lagos, victims of displaced persons that experienced devastating floods that destroyed their homes and properties, relations of some of slain youth corps members that equally reside in Lagos were interviewed. The study heavily relies on authoritative and valid secondary sources of data – National dailies (Nigeria Tabloids), journals, articles etc. on the desk type of research. The major findings of the study revealed neglects on the part of the State apparatus (government) in ensuring better, effective and functional policies.  Its magnitude is capable of threatening national cohesion of the country and endangering high rate of internally displaced persons across the country. The study concludes that given the magnitude and complexity of crises of internal displacement, these are inimical toward the discourse “Development”. This affects the country from achieving Millennium Development Goals – goal number eight (8): rights to safety of lives and properties as equally enshrined in other international treaties – choices to healthy, creative life and to enjoy a decent standard of living, freedom, dignity and self-respect and the respect of others. This argument is adjudged valid, given the empirical instance of poverty, inequality, unprecedented levels of bomb blast across the country and above all displacement vis-à-vis what development connotes.

Keywords: Refugees, Displaced person, Internally Displaced Persons, Sustainable-Development, Social-welfare