SERAP Urges Tinubu to Refer Benue Killings to International Criminal Court

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to refer the escalating violence and killings in Benue State to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for investigation and possible prosecution.

In a statement released on Saturday, SERAP condemned the continued mass killings in Benue and described them as crimes against humanity. The organization said the Nigerian authorities have consistently failed to prevent or adequately respond to the atrocities, which have led to widespread displacement and destruction.

“President Tinubu should urgently refer the situation in Benue State to the ICC to ensure justice and deter further violence,” said Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s deputy director. “The federal government has a duty under international law to protect lives and hold perpetrators accountable. Referring these crimes to the ICC would demonstrate a commitment to justice.”

Recent reports from Benue indicate that over 150 people were killed in a violent attack on Yelewata community in Gwer West Local Government Area. Gunmen reportedly stormed the area, opened fire on residents, and razed homes, leaving survivors in despair and hundreds displaced.

President Tinubu, during a recent visit to Makurdi, condemned the killings and directed security forces to hunt down those responsible. However, SERAP insists that government responses have been inadequate and largely symbolic, calling for stronger action beyond verbal condemnation.

“The Nigerian justice system has failed to address these crimes. There is a clear pattern of impunity. By referring the case to the ICC, Nigeria would be fulfilling its obligations under the Rome Statute and sending a strong message that these crimes will not go unpunished,” the group said.

Nigeria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, which allows state parties to refer serious crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity to the ICC when national mechanisms are unwilling or unable to act.

Rights groups, religious leaders, and humanitarian organizations have expressed concern over the continued violence in Benue and other parts of the country. Many have called for immediate action and accountability, warning that inaction could embolden more attacks.

“The cycle of killings must end. Victims deserve justice, and the international community must not look away,” SERAP said.

As of Sunday, there was no official response from the Presidency regarding the call for an ICC referral. However, sources within the Ministry of Justice indicated that the matter was being reviewed.