Professor Dapo Akande, a Nigerian-born international lawyer and Professor of Public International Law at the University of Oxford, has been elected a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), marking a major development in his international legal career.
Akande’s election followed a vote by the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council. He will serve a nine-year term on the Court, which is responsible for resolving legal disputes between states and delivering advisory opinions on questions of international law.
The election was reported by Vanguard on Wednesday, November 4, following an announcement by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
Although Akande was born in Nigeria and originally qualified as a lawyer in the country, he contested the judicial position as the United Kingdom’s candidate. His election therefore represents his appointment to the UK seat on the international court, rather than an appointment as Nigeria’s national representative.
The British government said Akande secured the support of a majority of UN member states in a closely contested election. His candidacy received backing from the British Prime Minister, ministers and diplomats.
Akande is the Chichele Professor of Public International Law at Oxford University, a Fellow of All Souls College and a member of the United Nations International Law Commission. He is also a barrister at Essex Court Chambers and has advised governments and international organisations on complex questions of international law.
His professional experience covers international dispute settlement, international criminal law, the law of armed conflict, the law of international organisations and legal issues relating to cyber operations.
He has also appeared as counsel, adviser and expert in proceedings before international courts and tribunals, including the International Court of Justice.
Reacting to his election, Akande said he was honoured by the confidence placed in him by UN member states. He pledged to discharge his responsibilities independently and impartially, applying the law faithfully in the resolution of disputes.
His election also marks the return of a United Kingdom judge to the ICJ after a nine-year absence, according to the UK government.
The International Court of Justice, established under the United Nations Charter, is based in The Hague, Netherlands. It is distinct from the International Criminal Court: while the ICJ principally handles disputes between states and advisory proceedings, the ICC prosecutes individuals for specified international crimes.
Akande’s appointment is a significant professional milestone and a notable development for the international legal community, particularly for Nigerian-trained lawyers and scholars whose work has reached the highest levels of international legal practice.
Related reports
behind Games Village, Abuja
5A, CGH, Games Village, Abuja