(WWM) Trying a new tactic against persistent persecution, Christian leaders in Nigeria have sought to press charges against Boko Haram before one of the world's top courts. This week, the strategy seems to have succeeded.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is now investigating the militant Islamist sect for "crimes against humanity." Chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said the group's "widespread and systematic attacks" have killed more than 1,200 people in northern Nigeria since 2009.

The preliminary ICC report is based on statistics leading up to December 2012. The ICC is now considering whether it merits further investigation.

The ICC, based in The Hague, tries cases of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide when a country's own courts fail to prosecute. Nigeria agreed in 2001 to subject itself to the jurisdiction of the ICC.

Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, president of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), agreed that the rate of ...

You have reached the end of this Article Preview

To continue reading, subscribe now. Subscribers have full digital access.

Log InSubscribe

Already a CT subscriber? Log in for full digital access.