Lawmakers back Akande's bid for International Court of Justice position

The House of Representatives has given its endorsement to Dapo Akande, a Nigerian-born international law scholar, for a seat on the International Court of Justice for the 2027–2036 term, as announced by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu on Wednesday.

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This announcement was made during a courtesy visit by Akande and officials of the British High Commission to the National Assembly in Abuja, where Kalu expressed his support for Akande's candidacy.

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Kalu described the United Kingdom's nomination of Akande as a recognition of his distinguished contributions to international law, highlighting Nigeria's global impact and the deepening relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

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As Deputy Speaker, Kalu stated that Akande's candidacy commands the admiration and support of the House, underscoring the importance of African representation on the world's highest judicial bench.

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Kalu emphasized that the nomination of a Nigerian-born scholar to the International Court of Justice is a matter of justice, not sentiment, and reflects the shared legal destiny between nations.

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Akande's academic and professional achievements, which have brought honour to Nigeria, were also acknowledged by Kalu, who noted that the renowned scholar began his legal journey in Nigeria before attaining global recognition.

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Kalu commended Akande's achievements, from being the Chichele Professor of Public International Law at All Souls College, Oxford, to counsel before the ICJ and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, and to a member of the UN International Law Commission, all of which began in Nigeria.

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The Deputy Speaker expressed confidence in Akande's chances of securing the position and urged the Federal Government to deploy its diplomatic influence through the African Union, ECOWAS, and the United Nations General Assembly to support the candidacy.

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Akande's extensive experience representing countries and international organisations places him in a strong position to contribute meaningfully to the work of the court, according to Kalu.

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Kalu challenged Akande to uphold justice and fairness if elected, noting that the ICJ is handling an unprecedented number of cases involving genocide, armed conflicts, and territorial disputes, and that Africa needs judges who understand the protective role of law.

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Earlier, Akande had expressed his gratitude for Nigeria's commitment to the rule of law and praised the National Assembly's efforts in strengthening constitutional democracy.

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Akande assured that if elected to the ICJ, he would work to advance the rule of law and strengthen international justice globally, and had come to Nigeria to seek the country's support for his candidature.