The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has formally requested the International Criminal Court (ICC) to terminate its investigation into the Nigerian military. Speaking at the 23rd Session of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC in the Hague, Netherlands, Fagbemi emphasised Nigeria’s efforts to promote justice and combat terrorism. The AGF argued that the ongoing investigation, in its 14th year, has discouraged military personnel dedicated to defending the nation. He emphasised that the nation’s justice system is solid enough to handle misconduct allegations without external intervention.
Fagbemi stated that the country remains committed to tackling terrorism, prosecuting perpetrators of despicable crimes, and restoring justice for victims. He noted that the ICC’s mandate is to intervene only when national systems are unable or unwilling to address such crimes, which he insists does not apply to the region. The AGF pointed to the strong system within the military system designed to ensure adherence to global humanitarian laws and accountability for any personnel found guilty of misconduct. He maintained that the nation has robust systems to uphold justice, including independent investigative panels and a court martial system for addressing violations.
Panel dismisses allegations made against the army personnel.
Furthermore, the AGF criticised the prolonged nature of the ICC’s preliminary investigation, which he described as counterproductive to the region’s efforts in combating terrorism. According to him, the delay has had a negative effect on military personnel who are actively engaged in fighting Terrorism and protecting civilians in conflict zones. He reiterated that they have shown the political will to address allegations against their military, citing the establishment of an independent Special Investigative Panel under the National Human Rights Commission. This panel thoroughly investigated claims and found no evidence to support allegations of forced abortions, child recruitment, or intentional killings.
Remember, in 2022, a Reuters report alleged that the Nigerian Army had conducted a secret forced Abortion program for women impregnated by Boko Haram fighters and had killed children linked to the terrorist group. Fagbemi noted that these claims were unsubstantiated following eight months of rigorous investigations by the independent panel. He stressed that the panel’s findings, accepted by the federal government, demonstrated the country’s willingness and ability to investigate such allegations transparently. He further emphasised that the military operates under international humanitarian law, ensuring captured soldiers are treated with dignity and respect.
Concerns over humanitarian, biased narratives and external influence.
He also outlined the government’s commitment to humane conflict resolution through programs such as the six-month Demobilization, Deradicalization, and Reintegration initiative. This program has successfully reintegrated over 4,000 former Boko Haram fighters into society, underscoring their focus on long-term Peace and stability. He pointed out the military’s adherence to legal frameworks prioritising civilian protection and minimising harm during operations. When mistakes occur, they are promptly investigated, and necessary corrective actions are taken, including restorative justice measures like compensation for victims.
Meanwhile, the AGF raised concerns about what he described as biased narratives pushed by certain groups attempting to undermine their efforts. He urged the ICC to consider the significant strides they have made in addressing misconduct allegations and to respect the principle of complementarity, which prioritises national Legal Systems over international intervention. Fagbemi stressed that their engagement with the ICC reflects the dedication to justice but warned against undermining the commitment of its military personnel through long and unnecessary investigations.
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In addition to addressing the ICC’s investigation, Fagbemi appealed to States Parties to ratify the Convention on Cluster Munitions, emphasising the devastating effects of these weapons on civilian populations and their hindrance to peacebuilding efforts. He also commended the newly elected members of the ICC’s Trust Fund for Victims and expressed confidence in their ability to fulfil their mandate with integrity. He reaffirmed the region’s support for the ICC’s mission and encouraged other nations to obtain the Rome Statute, underscoring the country’s commitment to global justice and the fight against injustice.