The federal government on Monday expressed dissatisfaction about continued attacks on the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its officials which continue to weaken the Rome Statute system and its support across the globe.

Attorney-General Abubakar Malami made this known while speaking at the 19th session of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, at The Hague, Netherlands.

“The federal government has condemned all actions geared towards undermining and weakening the ICC’s ability to freely exercise its mandate,” Mr. Malami was quoted to have said in a statement by his spokesman, Umar Gwandu. “Nigeria is therefore renewing its commitment to the ICC as the cornerstone of the fight against impunity and a critical element of rules-based international order.”

“We are committed to working together with States Parties to oppose efforts to undermine the work of the Court and its independence,’’ he assured.”

Mr. Malami also said Nigeria was committed to supporting an inclusive and transparent process in selecting the best and most qualified candidates for the coveted positions of prosecutor and judges of the ICC.

He reiterated the need not to compromise on the issue of high moral character of candidates seeking elective offices within the court system as that is the only way the credibility of the court could be sustained.

This, he said, is geared toward ensuring that jurists of the highest caliber will always aspire for appointment to the Court, thereby strengthening the quality of the bench as a whole.

He also commended the efforts of the outgoing president of the ICC who is also a Nigerian, Eboe Osuji.

“Osuji brought enduring reforms to the court and spearheaded efforts that have led to a better understanding of the court on the world stage as well as improved the conditions of service of judges,” he said.

(NAN)