Black Christmas: Urgent Call for International Criminal Court to Investigate Unlawful Killings in Plateau State

In a recent development, the Society for Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has requested Mr. Karim Khan, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), to urgently probe the unlawful killings, crimes against children, and other violations of international law in Plateau State.

The plea comes in the wake of the tragic events that unfolded during what is now being referred to as the “Black Christmas” in Plateau State. The region experienced a wave of violence and bloodshed, leaving a trail of destruction and sorrow in its wake.

SERAP, a Nigerian non-profit organization focused on promoting transparency and accountability, believes that the situation in Plateau State warrants immediate attention from the ICC. They argue that the unlawful killings and crimes against children constitute grave violations of international law and should be thoroughly investigated to ensure justice and prevent further atrocities.

Plateau State has been plagued by communal clashes and violence for several years, with recurring incidents of inter-ethnic conflicts and attacks on innocent civilians. However, the events that unfolded during the Christmas period were particularly harrowing and have left the nation in shock.

The plea to the ICC by SERAP is seen as a crucial step towards seeking justice for the victims and holding the perpetrators accountable. The organization has consistently advocated for the protection of human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria, and this latest move further reinforces their commitment to seeking justice for the victims.

The ICC, established in 2002, is a judicial body that investigates and prosecutes individuals responsible for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community. Its mandate includes crimes against humanity, war crimes, genocide, and crimes of aggression.

By calling on the ICC to probe the situation in Plateau State, SERAP hopes to draw international attention to the plight of the victims and the urgent need for justice. The organization believes that the involvement of the ICC will help ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, as well as provide a platform for accountability.

The plea by SERAP has garnered widespread support from both within Nigeria and the international community. Various organizations and individuals have expressed solidarity with the victims and called for swift action to address the ongoing violence and human rights abuses.

As the world grapples with the aftermath of the Black Christmas in Plateau State, it is crucial to remember that justice and accountability are fundamental principles that must be upheld. The plea to the ICC serves as a reminder that no one should be above the law, and those responsible for heinous crimes must be held accountable for their actions.

As the international community awaits a response from the ICC, it is hoped that the investigation will shed light on the truth, bring justice to the victims, and serve as a deterrent against future atrocities. The people of Plateau State deserve peace, security, and a future free from violence.

In conclusion, the urgent call for the ICC to investigate the unlawful killings in Plateau State reflects the collective desire for justice and accountability. SERAP’s plea represents a significant step towards addressing the ongoing violence and human rights abuses in the region. It is imperative that the international community supports this call and ensures that the victims of the Black Christmas receive the justice they deserve.

.

BREAKING: Black Christmas: We’ve asked Mr Karim Khan, Prosecutor, International Criminal Court (ICC) to urgently probe the unlawful killings, crimes against children and other violations of international law in Plateau State.@IntlCrimCourt

— SERAP (@SERAPNigeria) December 31, 2023

Source

@SERAPNigeria said BREAKING: Black Christmas: We’ve asked Mr Karim Khan, Prosecutor, International Criminal Court (ICC) to urgently probe the unlawful killings, crimes against children and other violations of international law in Plateau State. @IntlCrimCourt

RELATED STORY.