“I’m Most Qualified Candidate for ICJ Seat” — Nigeria’s Elias
Dr. Olufemi Elias, Nigeria’s candidate for the International Court of Justice (ICJ), asserts he is the most qualified contender for the vacancy, citing his combined background as an academic, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, and judge. “My profile ticks all the boxes,” he told NAN, pointing to over 20 years at the UN, current service as Judge Ad Hoc at the ICJ, and work in high-level administrative tribunals for OPEC and the Islamic Development Bank. Elias contrasts his candidacy with rivals Charles Jalloh and Phoebe Okowa, emphasizing his unique experience in UN operations and direct judicial duty at the ICJ, in addition to scholarly distinction. The Nigerian government has mobilized support for his election, hoping to secure the country’s first presence at the ICJ since 1994. Elias, President of the Administrative Tribunal of the OPEC Fund and member of the Institut […]