Most IDPs in Bentiu prefer to stay at the UN base in the town instead of returning home, the Unity state government has said.

Unity State Minister of Information Pater Makuoth Malual told Radio Tamazuj Tuesday that they are staying in the base because of food shortages in the market outside.

Makuoth said the citizens who have responded to the government's call to return to Bentiu town are experiencing shortages of building materials.

"Many houses were not destroyed, but they need some renovation like fixing of windows and doors, so the major problem facing the citizens now is that there are no building material available at the market," the minister said.

He urged traders in the state to provide essential commodities and building materials.

Makouth claimed that security situation is calm and that life has returned to normal in the state after recent attacks by defected troops on Wangkei area and other payams in Mayom County in the past weeks.

When asked about what the state government is doing so far to reintegrate locals who decided to return home, the minister stated their role is only confined to the provision of full security.

Makuoth called on the citizens to evacuate the POC in Bentiu, adding the SPLA forces are ready to repulse any attack by the rebels in the state.

He reiterated his government’s commitment to respect the cessation of hostility agreement in order reach peace with the opposition.

Photo: A man with his belongings in Bentiu, 12 January 2014 (AP Photo/Mackenzie Knowles-Coursin)

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