AGF Urges ICC to Halt Ongoing Probe of Nigerian Military

statement released on December 2, 2024, Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to discontinue its prolonged 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, Fagbemi highlighted Nigeria’s strong commitment to justice and combating terrorism, asserting that the country’s legal systems are fully capable of handling such matters domestically.

Fagbemi emphasized that the investigation, which has lasted 14 years, has demoralized the Nigerian military, which has been engaged in a prolonged fight against terrorism. The AGF reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to confronting impunity and holding perpetrators of crimes accountable, pointing to the country’s track record in investigating serious crimes committed by groups such as Boko Haram.

ALSO READ: AGF Defends Treason Charges Against Minors, Highlights Tinubu’s Compassionate Decision to Drop Case

The Nigerian government, through the National Human Rights Commission, had previously set up an independent Special Investigative Panel that reviewed allegations against the military, concluding that the claims of killings, torture, and underage recruitment were unsubstantiated. Fagbemi stressed that Nigeria’s military operates in accordance with international humanitarian laws and human rights standards, asserting that while mistakes may happen during conflict, they are promptly investigated by impartial commissions.

In his remarks, the AGF also raised concerns about the influence of groups spreading false accusations, aimed at undermining the legitimacy of the Nigerian military’s operations. Furthermore, he called on states to ratify the Convention on Cluster Munitions, as the continued use of such weapons impedes peace-building and humanitarian efforts.