As an organization whose primary interest is in the legal protection of human rights norms around the world, the ICJ has been concerned about developments in Nigeria over the past few years, especially as it concerns the lack of respect for human rights and the Rule of Law.
Between 1993 and 1995, the IC J issued several press releases, made statements at the United Nations and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and made direct representation to the Nigerian government expressing its concerns and calling for a change in the status quo. All these actions seemed to yield no results, while the situation degenerated further.
It is in the light of the continuing deterioration in the human rights conditions that the IC J decided to conduct an in depth study into the Nigerian situation. This study which covers the period 1985 – June 1996 is meant to assist in providing an insight into the root causes of some of the recent events and be a source of information for all those working towards finding a permanent solution to the crisis.
Nigeria-rule of law-thematic report-1996-eng (full text in English, PDF)