Evangelist Tor Uja, former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, has called for all Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Nigeria to be closed immediately, labeling them as “massive frauds” that do more harm than good.

Speaking on Monday, July 14, 2025, during a meeting with Christian leaders at the Mission House International Headquarters in Makurdi, Uja did not mince words. He shared troubling insights from his recent visits to displaced communities in Yelewata and Makurdi, where he observed first-hand the harsh realities faced by thousands living in these camps.

“We want the Benue State government, together with the Federal Government, to close down IDP camps right now,” Uja said. “None of these camps is productive. They were meant to be temporary, but have now become long-term disasters. Every IDP camp is a fraud and a destructive element.”

According to him, instead of serving their original purpose of offering short-term refuge, these camps have left many people stuck in hopelessness and dependency, stripping them of their dignity and future. He urged the government to focus on rebuilding destroyed communities and resettling people in safe, modern villages near their ancestral lands.

Uja also slammed the Federal Government for failing to end the security crisis caused by herdsmen and bandits, saying stronger, more decisive actions were needed — much like how Israel and the United States have dealt with similar threats.

“We need a new way of looking at our people and their environment,” he said. “Let’s take bold steps that allow them to live peacefully and contribute meaningfully to development.”

Finally, he called on Christian leaders to join hands with traditional rulers and local stakeholders to help displaced communities by providing support in areas such as healthcare, education, and child welfare. According to Uja, this is the only way to truly restore hope and give affected families a chance at rebuilding their lives.