Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Special Independent Investigative Panel’s report played a crucial role in saving Nigeria from being invited by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to respond to allegations of human rights infractions. According to Dr. Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the report helped to prevent Nigeria’s invitation to the ICC.
The report in question focused on human rights violations in counter-insurgency operations in the North East. The NHRC’s investigation and subsequent report demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to investigating and addressing human rights abuses, thereby avoiding ICC intervention.
This development is a significant step towards strengthening human rights protection in Nigeria. The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, with plans to pass the Human Rights Defenders Bill into law. The bill aims to provide a framework for protecting human rights defenders and promoting a culture of human rights in Nigeria.
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