Biafra: An Illusion, Day Dream or an Achievable Feat (The Legal Theories and Modern Framework on Self-Determination in International Law)

Abstract

The concept of self-determination is practically as old as the concept of statehood itself. Right from the formation of the theory of self-determination, the principles governing the topic has undergone several changes in many respect, and this points to the dynamic nature of self-determination, which has grown from a concept initially restrictively applied to other controversial topics such as decolonization, secession and to a justification for the break-up of multi-ethnic states such as Nigeria. As it stands, the theories may now extend towards suggesting that a right of self-determination exists for indigenous people.  However, the theories must also consider the laws of the state which the people seek to secede from. The purpose of this article is to identify the modern theories to self-determination, and the attempt to explain and analyze the application of these theories, that the concept has undergone.

Keywords: self-determination, Biafra, Nigeria, International Law.

DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/125-03

Publication date:October 31^st 2022