LAW

PROSPECTING INTERNATIONAL CRIMES IN AFRICA: TRENDS/PROSPECT AND CHALLENGES

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Across continental Africa, victims of different types of international crime cry for justice is loud and clear, yet, impunity is a common denominator in Africa's conflicts, with those suspected of criminal responsibility for crimes under international law rarely held to account.
All too often, national governments in Africa are unwilling or unable to conduct prompt, independent, impartial, and effective investigation into allegations of crimes under
international law. This project seeks to examine critically prosecution of international crimes
in Africa. This work takes a broad view of the concept of prosecution of international crimes,
by considering the possibility, challenges, and the value of such in Africa, we have established that the proposed extension of the African Court on Human and People's Right to include a Criminal session is a round peg in a round hole. Thus detail analysis of the Malabo Protocol, establishing the criminal jurisdiction of the African Court on Human and People's right has been given priority viz-a-viz the Rome Statute establishing the International Criminal Court. We have argued that due to the ever increasing ratio of perpetuation of international crimes in Africa, prosecution of such crimes in the region becomes desirable and thus do not contradict the jurisdiction of the International Criminal
Court, but rather complement it. This work consists of seven chapters-chapter one detail the
historical development of prosecution of international crime in Africa, chapter two examines international crimes, such as the crime of unconstitutional change of government as
provided for in the Malabo Protocol establishing the criminal jurisdiction of the African Court, viz-a-viz international crimes provided for under the Rome statute establishing the International Criminal Court. Chapter three considered the value and rational of prosecution of international crimes in Africa. Chapter four gives a critical analysis of the prospects of prosecution of international crimes in Africa. Jurisdiction of the African Court in prosecuting international crimes is examined in chapter five, while chapter six examined the challenges of prosecuting international crimes in Africa. Finally, taking into account all the arguments and views in the above chapters, we offer suggestions and recommendations to aid an effective regime of prosecution of international crimes in Africa in Chapter seven.
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EFFICACY OF THE DEFENCE OF FAIR DEAL IN COPYRIGHT CLAIMS IN NIGERIA

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This research endeavors to explore and enhance the understanding of fair dealing within the framework of copyright law in Nigeria. Part of its objectives encompasses defining the nature and scope of fair dealing, examining provisions of the Copyright Act related to copyright infringement, determining specific acts constituting fair dealing, and comparing this concept under the Nigerian Copyright Act with "Fair Usage" in other jurisdictions. Additionally, the study aims to identify challenges faced by defendants utilizing fair dealing as a defense and proposes measures to fortify the legal framework for fair dealings in Nigeria. The findings of this study underscore critical aspects of Nigeria's copyright landscape. The defense of fair dealing is revealed to be inadequately addressed in the current Copyright Act, marked by ambiguity and lack of specificity. Challenges arise from the interpretation and application of fair dealing provisions, leading to uncertainties for users and creators navigating the legal landscape. The study emphasizes the need for educational campaigns to address limited awareness and understanding, promoting responsible navigation of copyright issues. Moreover, the research highlights the evolving challenges posed by digital technologies, necessitating adaptive measures to align fair dealing provisions with contemporary realities. In conclusion, the thesis advocates for a comprehensive strategy to fortify fair dealing in Nigeria, recommending clarity in legislation, extensive educational efforts, ongoing judicial interpretation, and international benchmarking. These components are deemed integral for fostering a copyright environment that harmonizes creators' rights with the public interest. By addressing these recommendations, Nigeria can navigate the evolving challenges posed by technology and creative practices while upholding the principles of XV fair dealings.To ensure the continuous efficacy of the defense of fair dealing in Nigeria, the study proposes a set of recommendations. These include ensuring clarity and specificity in legislation, implementing education and awareness programs, developing guidelines and best practices, regularly reviewing and updating legislation, balancing rights and interests, promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, engaging in international collaboration, conducting public consultations, and addressing technological considerations. These recommendations collectively form a multifaceted approach aimed at fostering a balanced and informed copyright environment in Nigeria.
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AN ANALYSIS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN MATRIMONY AND IT’S SOCIOLOGICAL AND LEGAL IMPLICATION IN NIGERIA

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Domestic violence in matrimony is a widespread issue that affects people globally. Throughout history, many cultures have accepted domestic violence as a normal part of life. In recent years, there has been a shift in recognizing domestic violence as a criminal issue in some places. However, it is important to note that in certain societies, like the Nigerian society, it is still culturally accepted. This study adopts a doctrinal method of research. It examined legal framework addressing domestic violence, highlighted the various forms of abuse that can occur within the households and its consequences. It further examines the factors that contribute to domestic violence and the legal framework put in place by the government to protect victims of domestic abuse as well as the punishments for offenders. Notwithstanding the extant legal regime, incidences of domestic violence has remained unabated. The study examined the prevalence of domestic violence in other jurisdictions. Finally, this study concluded that domestic violence in matrimony is a global issue and it recommended immediate steps to be taken by the government agencies and other bodies to combat the menace of domestic violence in order to have peace and security in the society.
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CONSUMER PROTECTION IN THE TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR IN NIGERIA

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Communication right from creation is a very essential aspect of human existence. Just as it is obtainable in other parts of the universe, the concept of consumer protection is same in Nigeria. It is designed to protect consumers from unscrupulous producers and service providers. The telecommunication sector in Nigeria is an active participant in this development as seen in the accelerated growth of the industry with one innovation replacing another in quick succession. Following the opening up of the telecommunication sector of the Nigerian economy in 2002, telecommunication services became widely available in the country with the number of active telephone lines presently trying to equal the population of the country. However, with the rapid growth of the telecommunication industry and the consequent expansion of its consumer base, consumer dissatisfaction has become rife in Nigeria. Consumer complaints against telecommunication services provider include call interference and loss of audio, high rates of call attempts, recurrent downtimes, long delay and non-delivery of SMS, multiple deliveries of a single SMS and unsolicited commercial text messages. While the government has responded through the enactment of legislations, with the aim regulating the telecommunication sector, the issue of consumer dissatisfaction still continuesamidst these legislations. Utilizing the doctrinal research methodology, this research work seeks to the efficiency of the regulatory frame work on the regulation of the telecommunication sector and consumerprotection in Nigeria. The research work concluded by making salient recommendation whichimplemented will ensure more protection of the telecommunication consumers in Nigeria.
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ADDRESSING THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE: A QUEST FOR ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IN NIGERIA

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Climate change is one of the global fastest-growing problems, as it constitutes one of the greatest threats not only to human existence but to substantial human development, and human activities are considered the principal cause not minding the natural cause. Though the negative impacts of climate change is considered a global chaos, its biting effects on the Nigeria economy is overwhelming as it can be felt and seen clearly in the various sectors of the economy such as the agriculture, energy sector, food and health, drug, security, etc. These human activities which emit large amounts of green-house gasses include industrialisation, deforestation, burning of foil fuel, gas flaring, urbanisation and agriculture. The activities bring about increase in mean atmospheric temperature otherwise known as global warming that has the tendency to affect the ozon layer negatively and also deplete the productivity of the people in general. Despite the various laws made by the Nigerian government, the biting effects of climate change is still painfully felt as it is no longer a matter of the environment but that of the people who suffer the pains of the environmental degradation with little response from the policy makers and other stratas of government. To this effect, this work aims at addressing the negative impacts of climate change on the various regions of Nigeria particularly the northern and southern region (Niger Delta). It also considers the impacts of the various domestic and international frameworks for environmental protection and their shortcomings by relying on the doctrinal research methodology. It further addresses the quest for environmental justice and recommends that policy makers should consider the need for environmental justice and work towards setting practical strategies for the liberation of those that suffer the painful effects of climate change in Nigeria. It also calls for engagement of the civil and judicial communities to put all hands on dusk towards promoting environmental justice in Nigeria.
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THE ROLE OF THE COURT IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM: THE IMPACT OF DELAYS ON JUSTICE IN NIGERIA.

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The Nigerian criminal justice system is a caviling constituent of the country’s administration and the parts which the courts have to play within this system is important. The aim of this project is to delve into the different functions of the courts in criminal justice system of Nigeria and to dissect the impact of delays on the administration of justice in the country. This study adopts a doctrinal approach all information are purely from textbooks, internet, law reports for a better understanding of the subject matter.
The research begin by explaining what criminal justice system entail, role and functions of the courts in determining criminal cases, including their function in interpretation and application of the law, following due process, and safeguarding the rights of the accused. Furthermore, this project will dissect the organizational structure ofthe Nigerian court system and allocation ofresponsibilities among various tiers ofcourts, such as the Magistrate Courts,High Courts, Court ofAppeal, and the Supreme Court, in the handling ofcriminal cases.
In addition to expounding the hypothetical facets ofthe roles ofthe courts, the project will go into workable implementation ofthese functions, examining challenges and successes usually encountered within the court system of Nigeria. Most importantly, this research focuses on the existing issue of delays in the meting out of justice and its repercussions on the generic efficaciousness in the criminal justice system. Delays in court proceedings can cause long pretrial detention, abuse of defendants’ rights to a quick trial, and lessen the public confidence in the justice system.
The impact of these delays on the defendants, victims, and society at large will be critically examined through Nigerian case laws. Furthermore, this project will examine the fundamental causes of delays, touching factors such as backlog of case, institutional inefficiencies, inadequate infrastructure, and procedural complexities. By pinpointing these encumbrance, the research tends to provide practical recommendations for reforming the court system and building efficiency in handling criminal cases.
Finally, the project tends to make available to the ongoing discourse on judicial reform in Nigeria, dishing out insights that can inform policy interventions and institutional changes aimed at improving the administration of criminal justice. The findings of this research can serve as a foundation for further scholarly inquest and applicable initiatives geared towards strengthening the role of courts in upholding the rule of law and ensuring equitable access to justice for all citizens.
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SILENCE OF MALE RAPE VICTIMS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK OF MALE RAPE IN NIGERIA

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The offence of rape is a highly reprehensible and distressing social issue which have serious consequences for victims and society as a whole. It is a crime that is not limited to any gender and anyone can be both a perpetuator and a victim. While male victims have been mostly marginalized and silenced, this research delves into the phenomenon of male rape and explores the factors contributing to their silence and underreporting. This project focuses on the legal and institutional frameworks of male rape in Nigeria while considering the barriers this has created for male rape victims in Nigeria by exploring how the Nigerian laws address rape and male rape and the social stereotypes surrounding male masculinity and its effect on male victims of rape. It also seeks a review and reform of the laws guiding the offence of rape in Nigeria. It aims to provide recommendations for how society can better support male survivors and break the silence around male rape by creating platforms and enacting rape laws that ensure justice and help for male rape survivors
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