The right to self determination: An analysis of the issues concerning the (non) recognition of Biafra in 1967

Abstract

In 1967, as a consequence of a long running clash of interests with the Federal Government of Nigeria dating back to independence in 1960, the then Eastern Nigeria led by Lt.Col Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu seceded and declared its independence as the sovereign state of Biafra . This paper examines the non-recognition of the State of Biafra by the United Nations despite the establishment of the elements of statehood in the new state against the backdrop of the Doctrine of Self-determination. The Paper goes further to juxtapose the Biafra situation with others similar to it e.g Bangladesh, Kosovo, The Katanga Province and determines the unfair applications of the concept of Recognition in International Law. It concludes by stating that the non-recognition of the Sovereign State of Biafra (then) by the United Nations in 1967 was contrary to the principles of International Law.