By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Reuben Atabo, has raised critical considerations over what he described as “ample proof of genocide in Nigeria,” warning that sustained killings and mass displacement in elements of the nation now meet the authorized definition of genocide below each Nigerian and worldwide regulation.
Atabo spoke to journalists whereas marking his thirty sixth yr on the Bar, noting that the size, sample and persistence of violence in a number of North-Central states level to deliberate and systematic assaults on particular communities.
“Genocide is not only mass killing,” the senior lawyer stated. “It’s the intentional and systematic destruction of a folks due to who they’re.”
He cited the 1948 United Nations Conference on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, explaining that genocide consists of focused killings, infliction of significant bodily or psychological hurt, destruction of livelihoods and compelled displacement. In keeping with him, these indicators are more and more evident in Nigeria.
Atabo stated repeated assaults in Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Kwara and neighbouring states are neither random nor unintended.
“These killings are coordinated, repeated and focused. Complete communities are worn out, farmlands intentionally destroyed, survivors pressured into internally displaced individuals’ camps, whereas others take over their ancestral properties,” he said.
The SAN likened the scenario to early warning indicators that preceded the 1994 Rwandan genocide, warning that identity-based violence, when ignored or downplayed, can escalate quickly.
“The hazard isn’t solely within the killings themselves, however in state inaction, weak accountability and the normalisation of violence towards sure communities,” he stated.
He clarified that his feedback weren’t directed at any ethnic or non secular group, however at armed militias and institutional failures which have left susceptible Nigerians uncovered.
Drawing classes from Rwanda’s post-genocide justice course of, the place suspects had been investigated and prosecuted throughout completely different jurisdictions, Atabo pressured that impunity should not be allowed to persist.
“Core worldwide crimes should not time-barred. Justice delayed must not ever turn into justice denied,” he stated.
Describing widespread inside displacement as unacceptable in a democratic society, the senior advocate reminded the federal government of its most basic obligation.
“The primary responsibility of any authorities is the safety of lives and property. That’s what distinguishes a state from a state of nature, the place life is brief and brutish,” he declared.
He urged the Federal Authorities, safety companies and prosecutorial authorities to behave decisively by way of thorough investigations, efficient safety of threatened communities and credible prosecution of offenders.
“These actions should not elective; they’re authorized obligations,” Atabo stated. “Nigeria can’t declare stability whereas segments of its inhabitants face existential threats. For too lengthy, impunity has changed accountability. This should finish.”
Reflecting on his 36 years in authorized apply, Atabo stated current developments had strengthened his resolve to pursue justice with out concern or favour.
“I stay dedicated to defending the rights of my shoppers whereas making certain that the authorized course of is neither abused nor obstructed,” he stated. “Justice should prevail — and it should prevail now.”
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