Chef Naira Victor, known for his Guinness World Record attempt tagged 'Cook-a-thon', was reportedly assaulted by suspected political thugs on Saturday morning at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp located within the Makurdi International Market.
The IDP camp currently houses victims of the Yelewata massacre and is under the management of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
Details of the Incident
According to Chef Victor, he had been approached by the Federal lawmaker representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency to prepare meals for the displaced persons for one week. He had already begun this humanitarian task when the incident occurred.
While cooking for the IDPs, Chef Victor said he was suddenly confronted by a group of thugs, allegedly operating under the backing of a serving Benue State government commissioner. The chef was beaten, harassed, and ordered to vacate the camp immediately.
The reason given for this action was that the state government had officially contracted another chef to handle the feeding program at the camp.
Political Motivations Alleged
Speaking after the incident, Chef Victor claimed the attack was politically motivated, suggesting that the real issue was not about the food service but about who had sponsored his humanitarian effort.
"I was beaten not because of what I came to do, but because the person who sent me is not in the Governor's good books," he stated.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in Benue State, particularly in the aftermath of the Yelewata massacre, which has displaced numerous residents now seeking refuge at the Makurdi IDP camp.
The situation raises concerns about the politicization of humanitarian efforts in the region, especially at a time when displaced persons are in dire need of assistance.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official statement from the Benue State government regarding the alleged involvement of a state commissioner in the incident.
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