Leadnaija
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to refer the spate of killings in Benue State to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to ensure accountability and justice for victims.
The organisation also called on the President to consider similar action for other states affected by widespread violence and human rights violations, including Zamfara, Sokoto, Taraba, Plateau, and Borno.
In a statement on Sunday by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP said the referral would be a strong demonstration of Tinubu’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and human rights protection across the country.
“Referring the situation in Benue to the ICC would reinforce your expressed resolve to bring perpetrators to justice and restore peace,” the group said.
The group added that the move would help combat impunity and break the cycle of violence that has claimed thousands of lives over the years.
SERAP said, “This is no longer the time for lip service. The referral of the situation to the ICC would enable the court’s prosecutor to determine whether war crimes, crimes against humanity, or other serious violations of international humanitarian law have been committed.”
Citing Article 14 of the Rome Statute—which empowers state parties to refer situations involving grave crimes to the court—SERAP maintained that Nigeria has the legal standing to make the move.
The group said the alleged complicity or inaction of some state actors, and the inability of domestic institutions to ensure justice, further justify international intervention.
“The ICC’s jurisdiction extends to those who may be immune from prosecution at the national level, including high-ranking officials,” it stated.
SERAP also expressed concern over the alleged failure of security agencies to stem the violence and prosecute offenders. It said unless concrete action is taken, the killings would continue and perpetrators would remain emboldened.
It described as “procedurally straightforward” the steps required for the Nigerian government to make the referral, noting that other African nations such as Uganda, Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have done the same.
“The Rome Statute imposes no evidentiary burden on the state when making a referral. The prosecutor can then initiate a formal investigation or determine whether a reasonable basis exists,” the statement said.
SERAP also threatened to take further steps if the President fails to act within a week.
“If we do not hear from you within seven days of the receipt or publication of this letter, SERAP shall consider urging other state parties to the Rome Statute to refer the situation in Benue to the ICC,” the statement warned.
The organisation reiterated that justice is not a luxury, but a necessity for national stability, urging the Tinubu administration to take decisive action in the interest of victims and the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system.
