Abstract
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria face numerous challenges, including inadequate legal protection, poor living conditions, and limited access to basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare. The country’s legal framework is insufficient to address the needs of IDPs, leading to a surge in human rights violations. This study adopts a jurisprudential approach to examine the challenges faced by IDPs in Nigeria and the paucity of legal frameworks. It aims to identify the gaps in existing laws and policies, and proffer recommendations for improvement. This paper employs a qualitative research methodology, involving a critical analysis of existing literature, laws, and policies related to IDPs in Nigeria. The study reveals that the country’s legal framework is characterized by a lack of clarity, inconsistency, and inadequate implementation. The findings highlight the need for a comprehensive legal framework that addresses the specific needs of IDPs, including protection from violence, access to basic necessities, and durable solutions.To address the challenges faced by IDPs in Nigeria, this study recommends: Development of a comprehensive national policy on IDPs, incorporating international best practices, Enactment of a specific legislation on IDPs, providing clear guidelines for protection and assistance, Establishment of an independent national commission to oversee IDP affairs, Capacity building for relevant stakeholders, including government officials, humanitarian workers, and IDP representatives and Encouragement of community-led initiatives and inclusive decision-making processes. In conclusion, this study underscores the need for a robust legal framework to address the challenges faced by IDPs in Nigeria. By adopting a jurisprudential approach, this research highlights the importance of a rights-based approach to IDP protection and assistance. The recommended solutions aim to promote a more effective and sustainable response to the IDP crisis in Nigeria.