The Igbo Indigenous Justice System

A specific variety of communitarian theory, African Communitarianism, requires specific obligations and interactions to provide just resolution after members of society have been harmed. In this reading, the justice system of the Igbbo people is described. Before colonialism, the Igbo people of northern Nigeria engaged in a form of governance that used concensus building, and participation (of primarily males) to resolve disputes. The theory also shares a belief in the preservation of human life, and individual rights, similar to the contractarianism of Locke. Consider how the Igbo justice system involves group membership in a way that can be compared and contrasted with other theories of justice we have studied.

The Victim in the Igbo Indigenous Justice System

The victim is central to the Igbo indigenous justice system. Victims take the lead in bringing offenders to justice, unless the crime victimized the entire community. Victims may be assisted by family members and others in the search for justice. Victims are empowered by being accorded a voice and a role in the judicial process. The justice system seeks to vindicate the victim, and protect his or her rights and interests. The restoration of victims is achieved through their empowerment and by addressing their needs. Opportunities are provided to victims to tell relevant others how the actions of the offenders affected them. This all occurs in a secure and respectful setting. Victims are further reassured of protection against further victimization. This approach leads to validation of the victims' hurts and losses. Furthermore, victims feel validated when afforded the opportunity to share their concerns with empathetic listeners. Victims are encouraged to openly vent their anger and frustration. Respectful and secure settings do not have to be emotionally sterile and controlled, as is assumed in Wesetern court settings. In the Igbo process of justice victim care is a priority because of strong social solidarity and the prevailing spirit of good neighbourliness in the society in which these justice models are implemented.