Ethnic clashes between the Hausa speaking Azara and the Tiv communities in the Nigerian states of Nasarawa and Benue at the end of June resulted in an estimated two hundred deaths and massive displacement. Some 50,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) fled to the neighbouring Benue state.

The Daudu and Uikpam camps in Benue each shelter 8,000 to 9,000 people, while the rest of the refugees found refuge with friends and relatives. State authorities, Nigerian Red Cross and the actors responded rapidly to the situation by setting up camps and providing essential services.

MSF are conducting an on-site assessment and visiting the two states since June 26th. Urgently needed medicines and medical materials were donated to the state hospital in Lafia, the capital of Nasawara state. In Benue State, MSF donated medicines and medical materials to serve the health needs of the IDPs.

It also provided advice on camp management and water and sanitation. In both states, the response by local authorities and other agencies was adequate and did not require immediate further activity by MSF. However MSF will remain in the area to monitor the situation.