FENRAD presses ICC delegation on pressing human rights challenges in Nigeria

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) delegation to take urgent action on escalating human rights abuses in Nigeria, highlighting systemic challenges and calling for stronger accountability measures during a high-level engagement in the nation’s capital.

During the International Criminal Court (ICC) delegation’s official visit of Mame Mandiaye Niang, Deputy Prosecutor of the ICC, to Abuja, Nigeria.

The strategic engagement brought together a broad coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), human rights defenders, and critical stakeholders from across Nigeria, including participants from Abuja, Abia, and Enugu States.

The meeting served as a vital platform for inclusive dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strengthened collaboration between domestic civil society actors and international justice mechanisms.

A major highlight of the engagement was the incisive presentation delivered by Executive Director of FENRAD and Steering Committee Member of the Human Rights Network Agenda (HRAN), Nelson Nnanna Nwafor.

His intervention provided a compelling and evidence-based analysis of the deteriorating human rights situation in Nigeria’s Southeast region.

In his presentation, Comrade Nnanna Nwafor drew urgent attention to:
The persistence of mass atrocities and systemic human rights violations

The alarming trend of extrajudicial executions, and the growing securitization and militarization of the Southeast region.

He strongly advocated for proactive engagement and possible intervention by the ICC, emphasizing that the Human Rights Network, alongside FENRAD, has developed a robust and comprehensive body of documented evidence to support accountability processes.

He stressed the imperative of ensuring justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable in line with international human rights standards.

FENRAD reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advancing human rights, promoting accountable security governance, and amplifying the voices of vulnerable and affected communities across Nigeria’s Southeast.

The organization also commended the leadership of Chino Obiagwu (SAN), President of HRAN, and expressed deep appreciation to the ICC delegation led by Mame Mandiaye Niang for their openness, engagement, and commitment to fostering justice and accountability.

This engagement marks a significant step toward strengthening cooperation between Nigerian civil society and international justice institutions in the collective pursuit of justice, peace, and the rule of law.