Abstract
This Article focuses on the plight of the Igbo ethnic group of southeast Nigeria. It traces the historical and political evolution of Nigeria with emphasis on ethnic relations. In arguing that the Igbo are victims of fundamental human rights violations, references are made to relevant international human rights instruments, as well as to the various constitutional guarantees entrenched in various Nigerian constitutions. The marginalization of the Igbo is discussed, particularly with regard to disparities in national education programs. This Article also discusses the Igbo right to self-determination and the failure of the international community to intervene on behalf of the Igbo. Although it is proved that the Nigerian government has systematically breached its human rights obligations, this Article establishes the fact that the Igbo themselves, to a great extent, created the environment that enabled and enhanced their so-called marginalization in Nigeria. The Article then proceeds to suggest remedies.
Recommended Citation
Ema I. Orji,
Issues on Ethnicity and Governance in Nigeria: A Universal Human Rights Perspective,
25 Fordham Int'l L.J. 431
(2001).
Available at: https://ir.lawnet.fordham.edu/ilj/vol25/iss2/4