ASSESSMENT OF THE HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATIONS' INTERVENTIONS IN THE NIGERIA CIVIL WAR: A FOCUS ON THE IGBO POPULATION

Resumen

Humanitarian Intervention by organizations in the Nigerian Civil War was premised on the moral principle and the need to alleviate suffering among the distressed population. However, these altruistic interventions were, challenging and capable of negative and unintended results. This paper investigates the activities and roles of several humanitarian organizations that were in charge of relief operations in those areas ravaged by famine during the Nigerian Civil War. It will show that some of the humanitarian interventions were altruistic, contentious challenging and capable of negative and unintended consequences. Attempts have been made by humanitarian bodies to influence the behaviour of Biafran leadership through psychological and material support. The paper will look at legitimacy of humanitarian intervention. It will show that relief aid gave the regime legitimacy and thus strengthened it. The direct dealings of the United States with the secessionists in the area of humanitarian assistance were a very big boost. This work will also look at challenges and controversies surrounding the activities of World Council of Churches, the Red Cross, Holy Ghost Fathers, Cantos International, the Vatican etc.