The North-Central Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a scathing criticism of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, accusing him of neglecting his duties amid an escalating humanitarian crisis in Nigeria, particularly in his home state of Plateau.

In a statement released on Sunday by the Forum's chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, the group expressed deep disappointment over what it described as the Minister's inadequate response to the plight of displaced communities across the country.

"Plateau had no ministerial representation for eight months, and we advocated for a competent replacement. Sadly, since Prof. Yilwatda's appointment, the Ministry has not lived up to expectations. His impact has barely been felt," the statement read.

Yilwatda, who was the APC's governorship candidate in the 2023 Plateau State elections, was appointed Minister in October 2024 following Senator Simon Lalong's resignation. His appointment had raised hopes for increased federal intervention in his conflict-ravaged state.

The Forum highlighted the severity of the crisis in Plateau State, noting that more than 64 communities have been overrun by armed groups, with thousands of residents displaced. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), at least 52 people were killed and over 1,800 displaced in a wave of attacks between March 27 and April 2, 2025.

"As stakeholders close to the grassroots, we can confirm that the Ministry has done very little to support displaced communities," the Forum stated.

The group also criticized Yilwatda for failing to visit affected areas, pointing out that it was instead the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, who visited displaced people in Bokkos Local Government Area in December 2024 and engaged with local leaders.

"It is disheartening that a minister from Plateau has not visited his own people in their time of need. His presence and leadership are urgently required," the statement emphasized.

In a particularly damning accusation, the Forum suggested that Yilwatda might be allowing political grudges to interfere with his ministerial duties. They specifically referenced his rivalry with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who defeated him in the 2023 gubernatorial election.

"Public service must rise above politics. The wellbeing of citizens must not be sacrificed because of political differences," the Forum insisted.

The criticism comes at a sensitive time, with President Bola Tinubu approaching his administration's second anniversary on May 29, 2025, amid growing speculation about a possible cabinet reshuffle.

The Forum has called on Yilwatda to urgently mobilize federal resources to address the worsening humanitarian situation in Plateau State and other affected parts of the country.

As of press time, there has been no official response from the Minister or the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction regarding these allegations.