APPRAISAL OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR PROTECTION OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Internal displacement as a forced induced movement or relocation of individuals or group of individuals from one place or location to another as a result of fear of being harmed, maimed or attacked by either natural disasters or manmade/created disasters within Nigeria has caused more harm than good on the overall interest of Nigeria as a nation. Internally displaced persons in Nigeria face a lot of challenges which include loss of homes, break up of family link or ties, loss of community support networks, loss of lives, loss of tangible and intangible goods hence the need for their protections. The harsh conditions and experiences of the internally displaced persons have generated serious concern nationally, regionally and internationally creating need for solution on how best to prevent internal displacement, protect and promote the wellbeing of the victims of internal displacement. The study evaluated the existing legal frameworks meant for the protection of internally displaced persons directly or indirectly in Nigeria and found the existing legal frameworks to be grossly inadequate. The study recommends domestication of Kampala Convention by the National Assembly. It concludes that until such law is made, the victims of internal displacement shall continue to enlarge as well remain in sorry state and deprivation of their fundamental human rights.
Keywords: Internal Displacement, Internally Displaced Persons