ASSESSING THE REALISATION OF THE RIGHT TO WATER AND SANITATION FOR INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF UHOGUA IDP CAMP, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

Abstract

Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) are internationally recognized as essential components of the right to human dignity and health. The rise in insurgency particularly in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria, has led to displacement of several persons, leaving many vulnerable to poor living conditions. Internally Displaced Persons Camps (IDP) are often characterized by overpopulation which often worsened the challenges related to access to water, sanitation and hygiene. This study assesses the gap, if any, between the international human rights standards of availability, quality and safety, accessibility, affordability and sustainability and the realities of WASH implementation in the privately coordinated camp- “Home for the Needy” Internally Displaced Persons camp in Uhogua, Benin City, Edo State (known as Uhogua IDP camp.) The research adopted a mixed legal research methodology that combines traditional doctrinal analysis of existing laws on WASH and international legal documents and qualitative methods through interviews and physical observation so as to assess water and sanitation conditions. The findings reveal an implementation gap despite the camp’s organized structure: inadequate and poorly maintained toilet facilities compromising privacy and dignity while residents endure irregular water supply due to lack of electricity. The study concludes that, in order to improve WASH conditions, there be stronger state involvement. Collaboration between the state and the camp’s private coordinator is also necessary to aid the provision and management of WASH facilities in Uhogua IDP camp.