By Asare Asare, Daily Post Newspaper
The stream of refugees especially from Cameroon Republic has continued to rise, the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) says.
So far, there are over 38,000 of them in various settlements in parts of the state, while there are over 70,000 refugees in the country.
The Director-General SEMA, Mr. Princewill Ayim who disclosed this also added that those from the Central African Republic have returned home since the situation in their country improved.
Anyim informed our Correspondent that some of the refugees have melted into the borderline of Nigerian communities to fend for themselves.
“The refugees who prefer to leave the settlements, formerly called Refugees Camps, into the communities are free to do so. It is normal. It is also optional. We do not force them against their will.
“They are all registered and are receiving their monthly stipends and other supports from the UNHCR as well as the National Committee for Refugees and Displaced Persons.”
Ayim also said those classified as Urban Refugees are those that do not necessarily need the protection or help of SEMA, UNHCR or the National Committee for Refugees because they are comfortable, running their businesses and are often asylum seekers.
“Only those that crossed the borders during crises for safety and seeking protection are those they register and extend supports”, he said.
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