The ECOWAS Court of Justice has dismissed claims of human rights violations brought by a non-governmental organization (NGO) against the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The NGO, The Registered Trustees of HEDA (Human and Environmental Development Agenda) Resource Centre, had alleged that Nigeria failed to protect various human rights, particularly for residents in oil-producing areas.
On Thursday, Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, Judge Rapporteur, delivered the judgment, stating that the Court dismissed all claims due to lack of evidence and facts supporting the allegations. The NGO was ordered to pay a nominal cost of N100,000 to the Nigerian government.
The case, filed on July 22, 2021, under suit number ECW/CCJ/APP/40/21, was based on alleged failures by Nigeria to ensure the rights to life, dignity, physical and mental health, and a healthy environment. The NGO’s Counsel argued that despite laws prohibiting gas flaring, it continued, causing health hazards and environmental damage.
The Nigerian government, represented by its Counsel, denied all allegations, citing updated regulations and efforts to mitigate environmental harm in oil-producing areas. The Court found that the NGO failed to provide evidence for its claims and noted the government’s demonstrated efforts to address the issues.
The panel, including Justice Dupe Atoki and Justice Ricardo Claúdio Monteiro Gonçalves, concluded that the claims were baseless and dismissed the case.
