Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds in Ladu Payam as 6,000 IDPs Affected by Flood Due to Land Grabbing

By Fuli Dickens Isaac

In a dire situation unfolding in Ladu Payam, central Equatoria state, over 6,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) find themselves affected by floods after being forcibly moved to swampy areas by land grabbers. The residents of Ladu Payam have reported instances of armed land grabbers killing citizens, looting their lands and properties, exacerbating the already precarious situation.

During a visit to the affected citizens, Member of Parliament representing Ladu Payam, Hon Edward Dion, highlighted that the victims of land grabbing are predominantly children, women, and elderly individuals whose lands have been unlawfully occupied. He appealed to the state government to urgently intervene in addressing the issue of land grabbing, allowing the displaced community to return to their rightful homes for settlement.

Moreover, Hon Edward Dion called for immediate humanitarian assistance to aid those affected by the flooding. With the rainy season persisting, there are growing concerns of potential fatalities due to diseases and lack of proper shelter and medical care.

Executive Chief of Ladu East Boma, Charles Laku Wani, expressed deep concerns over the insecurity caused by land grabbers in the region, leading to the loss of innocent lives. He emphasized the urgent need for support in providing shelter, medication, and food to the vulnerable citizens now residing in flooded areas.

Local government officer in charge of Ladu East Boma, Ladu Payam, Ladu Satimon Aggre, echoed the sentiments of the community, stating that land grabbers have been armed and are committing various atrocities, including looting animals and lands, as well as targeting local residents. Despite efforts by local authorities, they face threats and intimidation, hindering their ability to address the crisis effectively.

The affected women in Ladu Payam shared heartbreaking stories of their children going hungry due to food items being stolen by land grabbers, lack of adequate shelter, and a shortage of medicine resulting in children falling ill with pneumonia.

In light of this unfolding humanitarian disaster, the community of Ladu Payam is urgently calling for immediate and substantial humanitarian assistance to alleviate their dire conditions and restore a sense of normalcy to their lives.