Íjùtà Virtual Archive on the Genocide of the Igbo in Nigeria, 1966-1970

The Genocide of the Igbo before and during the Biafran War (1967-1970) remains a pivotal yet under-documented chapter in African and world history, marked by widespread atrocities, human rights violations, and immense civilian suffering. Developing a comprehensive virtual archive dedicated to documenting, preserving, and analysing these events is crucial for historical accuracy, education, justice, and healing. This archive will serve as a vital resource for researchers, educators, survivors, and policymakers worldwide.

• Urgency: primary materials and eyewitnesses are aging; physical documents, fragile photos and tapes are at risk from decay, loss, or dispersal. 

• Historical record & justice: a reliable archive supports research, truth-telling, potential accountability processes, and public memory. 

• Community empowerment: an archive co-designed with affected communities

•Historical Preservation
Documenting testimonies, photographs, official reports, and media coverage ensures that the atrocities are preserved for future generations and prevents denial or distortion of facts.

•Educational Resource
The archive will facilitate learning about the socio-political context, causes, and consequences of the genocide and the Biafra conflict, fostering awareness and preventing future conflicts.

•Human Rights and Justice
Providing documented evidence supports advocacy for justice, reconciliation, and accountability for victims and affected communities.

•Empowerment and Memorialization
The platform can serve as a space for survivors and their families to share their stories and find collective memory and healing.