Transitional Justice and the Question of Ethnic Crises in Nigeria

Abstract

British colonialism forced different ethnic groups together to form a nation called Nigeria. Since independence in 1960, the country has witnessed series of ethnic conflict. Various factors have contributed to this, such as political manipulation, marginalisation, corruption, favouritism, census manipulation, exploitation, inequality and others. These extraneous factors have affected the unity, peace, development and progress of the country. The question is whether wholesale transitional justice mechanisms should be employed to resolve myriads of ethnic crises in the country. What are the other forms of transitional justice mechanism to be adopted? While acknowledging the relative peace and stability recorded, adopted peacebuilding methods have not led to effective and enduring peace in Nigeria. Additional peacebuilding mechanisms should be considered such as reparations, institutional reforms and prosecution. To ensure peaceful coexistence is strengthened, transitional justice mechanisms must be holistic. Therefore, this Chapter concluded that peacebuilding methods could be complemented by justice, reparations, security, vetting, prosecution, development and guarantees of non-repetition of conflicts.