The European Union has called on Pro Biafra agitators to explore
International laws rather than arms struggle for their agitation. This
is coming against the backdrop of the request by Biafra activists and
the Organization of Emerging African States (OEAS) for the referendum
to be conducted on the independence of a republic of Biafra.
Pro-Biafra activists earlier requested that the European Union High
Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security, Federica Mogherini,
wades into the need to conduct a referendum for Biafra’s independence.
The call was made through the OEAS.
The organisation also called for the release of those it described as
‘Biafran political prisoners’ and a stay of action by the Nigerian
troops, and for quick referendum to be held within 90 days.
In response to this request, Mogherini told Dr Jonathan Levy, the OEAS
chief administrative officer, that while the EU has strong diplomatic
and economic relationship with Nigeria, the “protection of human
rights and fundamental freedoms remains a priority for the EU and we
encourage the authorities [in Nigeria] in every occasion to respect
such rights.”
The EU further went on to caution the OEAS and Biafra agitators that
the push for self-determination and border changes must be carried out
within the ambits of the established international law.
It added that the state of Biafra can only be recognized through the
international law, and not through the armed secession.
The OEAS had been pushing for an internationally recognized referendum
on Biafra independence or autonomy.
In the same vein, the OEAS advised that all nonviolent means should be
utilized including general strikes, economic boycotts, work actions,
demonstrations, lawsuits, and civil disobedience.
The ILO recognizes the right to engage in general strikes and the
right to strike is also recognized in the International Covenant on
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 1966 (Article 8(1)(d)).
Nigeria is a member of the International Labor Organization (ILO).
