The Federal Government of Nigeria has requested the International Criminal Court (ICC) to conclude its 14-year investigation into alleged crimes committed by the Nigerian military. Speaking at the 23rd session of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute in The Hague, Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized Nigeria’s capability to handle such cases internally.
Fagbemi highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to justice and accountability, citing the establishment of an independent panel by the National Human Rights Commission. The panel investigated allegations against the military, including claims of killings and the recruitment of underage fighters, which it found unsubstantiated.
The AGF stressed the need for the ICC to respect the principle of complementarity, under which the court acts as a last resort only when national judicial systems fail. He also called for an end to what he described as biased narratives and urged States Parties to accede to the Rome Statute for global justice.
Fagbemi reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to upholding international humanitarian law and protecting human rights while combating terrorism.
