The federal government of Nigeria has called on the International Criminal Court and the Libyan authorities to work closely to develop ways to advance ongoing investigations in order to ensure justice for Libya’s victims.
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Speaking at the United Nations Security Council’s Chambers in New York during the briefing of the International Criminal Court Prosecutor on the situation of Libya, Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Prof Joy Ogwu called for continued cooperation with the Court, saying it will help to expedite completion of current investigations.?
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She urged the Court to be relentless in its cooperation with United Nations bodies, Libyan authorities and others to ensure that gender crimes and attacks on black Africans and migrants were addressed.
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The Nigerian Envoy who stressed her firm commitment to the fight against impunity and to ensuring it was carried out decisively also said that States must cooperate with that aim. She lauded the Court’s contact and cooperation with the Libyan authorities to ensure justice for all Libyan victims.
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“The Court’s work was essential to ensure reconciliation in Libya, as the systematic and widespread violations of human rights had left “open veins and physical and emotional scars” she said.
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Ambassador Joy Ogwu noted that Nigeria was deeply concerned that the escape of Libyans indicted by the Court could have serious political and security implications for neighbouring States.?
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She maintained that those nations could not become safe havens for illegal small arms and light weapons in the region and a place from which to conduct subversive activities.
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Speaking on behalf of the government of the United Kingdom, Mr. Mark Lyall said the Libyan people were now coming together to build a prosperous democratic country.
Expressing hope that Muammar Gadhafi’s death would provide relief to their suffering, the United Kingdom Envoy said that the Libyan authorities should continue to speak out.?
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