Nigeria: Crimes against Humanity and Human Rights

(asked on 2nd June 2020) - View Source

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Nigeria to encourage the (1) investigation, and (2) prosecution, of (a) war crimes, (b) crimes against humanity, and (c) other human rights abuses, committed by (i) Boko Haram, (ii) Islamic State West Africa Province, and (iii) Fulani militia.


Answered by
Baroness Sugg Portrait
Baroness Sugg
This question was answered on 15th June 2020

We are appalled by and condemn violence caused by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa, that has caused immense suffering to communities in North East Nigeria. The UK is supporting the fight against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa in the region, through a substantial package of security, humanitarian and stabilisation assistance. We regularly make clear to the Nigerian authorities at the highest levels the importance of protecting civilians and human rights for all, as well as ensuring those responsible for criminal acts and human rights abuses are held to account. It is important that all civilians affected by crime or conflict see that justice has been done. We call for suspects to have access to justice and that cases are carried out in accordance with Nigerian law and international human rights standards.

Intercommunal violence across multiple states in Nigeria has a devastating impact on local communities. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Wilton Park hosted a conference on 'Fostering Social Cohesion in Nigeria' in February, to consider solutions to intercommunal violence in Nigeria. Amongst other things, participants at that conference highlighted the importance of language and cautioned against the use of inflammatory terminology, including 'militia', to describe diverse ethnic groups. We are working closely with the federal government, state governments, international partners and the National Economic Council in Nigeria, to help address the root causes of intercommunal violence, and continue to push for solutions that meet the needs of all communities affected.

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