Call to Ratify Malabo Protocol for Stronger Security
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s National Assembly face calls to ratify the African Union’s Malabo Protocol. Thus, the appeal came during a security and governance dialogue held in Abuja on Thursday. Consequently, stakeholders stressed the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks to combat national and continental insecurity.
Legal Expert Highlights Benefits of Protocol
Constitutional lawyer Abdul Mahmud spoke at the event, urging fast ratification. Additionally, he said the protocol would boost regional cooperation and intelligence sharing. Moreover, it also strengthens prosecution of terrorism-related offences across African countries. Mahmud stated, “The Malabo Protocol provides a solid legal framework for African countries to jointly address terrorism, cybercrime, corruption and other cross-border crimes threatening peace and stability on the continent.”
Urgency for Commitment from Nigerian Leadership Mahmud called on President Tinubu and the National Assembly to show commitment. Furthermore, he urged them to fast-track the ratification and implementation process without delay.
Background of the Malabo Protocol
The African Union adopted the Malabo Protocol in 2014 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. In addition, it expands the African Court of Justice and Human Rights’ jurisdiction to international crimes. These crimes include terrorism, corruption, and other transnational offences.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorism
Ratifying the Malabo Protocol aligns Nigeria with regional efforts against rising insecurity. Likewise, it supports shared intelligence and legal collaboration to tackle cross-border threats
The need for the Malabo Protocol
The Malabo Protocol, adopted by the African Union in 2014, aims to enhance the African Court of Justice and Human Rights by expanding its jurisdiction to include international crimes such as genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and corruption. This expansion seeks to strengthen accountability and justice mechanisms within the continent.
As of June 2024, only one African Union member state has ratified the Malabo Protocol, and 15 have signed it. A minimum of 15 ratifications is required for the protocol to enter into force.
The benefits of the Malabo Protocol include:
Enhanced Accountability: By granting the African Court jurisdiction over a broader range of international crimes, the protocol aims to improve the prosecution of serious offences within Africa.
Regional Ownership: The protocol allows African nations to address international crimes through a homegrown judicial mechanism, asserting greater control over legal processes.
Complementing Global Efforts: It serves as a regional complement to global justice initiatives, ensuring that international crimes are addressed effectively within the continent.
The slow ratification process has been a concern, as the protocol cannot become effective until the required number of ratifications is achieved. However, stakeholders continue to advocate for increased support and ratification to strengthen Africa’s capacity to address international and transnational crimes.
Conclusion: A Crucial Step for Nigeria’s Security Future
Ratifying the Malabo Protocol presents a critical opportunity for Nigeria to lead regional security efforts. Hence, by embracing stronger legal frameworks, Nigeria can enhance cooperation with African nations and improve its capacity to combat terrorism and transnational crimes effectively. Importantly, President Tinubu and the National Assembly’s swift action will demonstrate commitment to peace, stability, and justice across the continent. Hence, the time for decisive leadership is now, as regional threats demand united and robust responses.
