T
his is my message to The Alliance of the Sahel States made up of Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali that have withdrawn from the International Criminal Court (ICC),The three military-led West African nations say the ICC is being used as a "neo-colonialist repression" instrument.In the marketplaces of
Accra, the courtyards of
Lagos, and the town halls of
Freetown, a single drumbeat is heard: “Justice must be blind, but it must not be deaf.” West African nations are increasingly voicing a collective concern — that the International Criminal Court (ICC), once hailed as the global watchdog of justice, is being wielded as a
neo-colonialist cudgel.
Across the region, the sentiment is raw and unmistakable. Leaders and citizens alike believe the ICC’s sword cuts unequally, falling hardest on African soil while sparing powerful nations. As the Nigerian proverb goes, “The axe forgets, but the tree remembers.” The scars of colonialism run deep, and every summons from
The Hague rekindles memories of a time when foreign powers dictated the fates of African leaders and peoples.
From the streets of
Monrovia to the ministries of
Dakar, this accusation is not just about courtrooms; it’s about dignity, sovereignty, and self-determination. People whisper with a bitter edge, “Why is the lion always painted evil in the hunter’s story?”
Yet, amid the heat of emotion, there is also a yearning for true justice. Citizens, activists, and victims of
war crimes still want accountability; they simply want it to be fair and balanced. The African proverb says, “When elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” For ordinary people in conflict zones, political tug-of-wars between global institutions and national leaders can mean delayed justice and prolonged suffering.
What are the Best Solutions? – A Path Forward.
Strengthen African Justice Systems
Our African Proverb says: “The child who washes his hands eats with elders.”
By developing strong and independent regional courts (such as the
African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights) with clear jurisdiction over war crimes, West Africa can show the world it is ready to handle its own justice. This reduces dependency on external bodies and restores public faith.
Reform the ICC’s Processes
“What’s sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.”
West African states, working through the
African Union, should demand more even-handed investigations, not just in Africa but globally. This means pushing for
universal jurisdiction and transparent selection of cases.
Let us Promote Hybrid Courts & Partnerships
Our African Proverb says: “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”
Encourage hybrid courts (international + local judges) so justice blends global standards with local legitimacy. This also strengthens trust and capacity.
Education & Public Engagement
“Sunlight is the best disinfectant.”
By teaching citizens about their legal rights, international law, and the role of the ICC, governments and civil society can demystify the court and prevent misinformation or manipulation by elites.
Let us Use Diplomatic Channels for Reform
Our African proverb says,“When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.”
Instead of abrupt withdrawals, West African nations can use their collective bargaining power within the
Assembly of States Parties to reform the ICC, ensuring it treats Africa as an equal partner, not a testing ground.
Let us Focus on Victims, Not Politics
“Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.”
While criticizing bias is valid, it’s vital to keep the victims at the center. Justice delayed for them is justice denied.
The ICC was born out of humanity’s desire to say “never again” to atrocities. But if justice becomes a selective spear, it wounds its own credibility. As a
Sierra Leonean elder once said, “If the drummer changes his beat, the dancers must change their steps.” West Africa is not asking for immunity from justice; it is demanding equality before it.
The path forward is neither blind rejection nor blind submission, but a bold reimagining of global justice — one where African sovereignty and universal accountability walk hand in hand.
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