ICC identifies potential war crimes by Nigerian security forces

The International Criminal Court in The Hague has outlined three possible cases of war crimes it could press against Nigerian security forces, as well as seven charges it could bring against Islamist insurgent group Boko Haram. 

In its end of year report on preliminary examination activities, the ICC prosecutor’s office listed Nigeria alongside ten other countries being probed for alleged war crimes and international human rights abuses. Other countries being investigated include Colombia, Palestine, Philippines, and Myanmar. 

Nigeria is currently in phase three of the investigation: admissibility. This is the final stage before the ICC investigation reaches its conclusion. 

Dated 5th December 2019, the prosecutor’s report examines a range of alleged crimes committed by Nigerian forces since conflict with Boko Haram began in 2010. 

Alleged crimes by the Nigerian Security and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) include the killing, torture or ill-treatment of suspected Boko Haram supporters. Nigerian officials could also be accused of perpetrating attacks against the civilian population and recruiting children under the age of 15 to participate in combat. 

The report also documents crimes committed by Islamist insurgency group Boko Haram, including targeted attacks against civilians and abductions. Furthermore the ICC is investigating clashes between Nigerian security forces and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, as well as those with the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra.

Photo credit: The Will Nigeria