Objections as the Backbone of Fair Trials WITHIN adversarial legal systems, courtroom proceedings are governed by strict evidentiary and procedural rules. One of the most visible enforcement tools is the objection—a mechanism through which lawyers challenge perceived irregularities during trial. When a lawyer raises an objection, the judge is immediately called upon to rule on […]
By STELLA JUSTICE NNENNAYA A Common Encounter on Nigerian Roads ENCOUNTERS between citizens and law enforcement officers often come with a familiar request: “Open your phone.” For many Nigerians, this demand—frequently made during stop-and-search operations—has become routine. Yet, beneath the humour and casual compliance lies a serious legal question: can the police lawfully compel a citizen […]
Understanding the Distinction in Nigeria’s Legal System IN everyday conversation, the terms “lawyer” and “advocate” are often used interchangeably. Yet within Nigeria’s legal framework, the distinction—though subtle—reveals deeper structural and professional realities about how the justice system functions. A lawyer, in the Nigerian context, is any individual who has completed legal education, attended the Nigerian […]
The Rising Legal Debate Around Prophetic Claims ACROSS Nigeria’s vibrant religious landscape, prophetic declarations often carry immense personal and economic weight. From career breakthroughs to life-changing opportunities, believers frequently act on these assurances. But what happens when those assurances fail? Increasingly, aggrieved individuals are questioning whether the law offers any remedy against prophets whose predictions […]
Understanding “In Chambers” Proceedings in Nigerian Courts PUBLIC reactions to courtroom language often reflect a mix of curiosity and suspicion. One such phrase — “the matter will be heard in chambers” — frequently triggers assumptions of secrecy or even misconduct. However, legal experts say such interpretations are often misplaced, as the concept is firmly grounded […]
More Than a Courtroom Ornament ACROSS courtrooms, law faculties, and judicial complexes worldwide, one figure stands in silent authority: Lady Justice. Depicted as a blindfolded woman holding a scale and a sword, the statue is often taken for granted—seen, but rarely interrogated. Yet, beneath its familiar form lies a dense philosophical and legal framework that […]
The Limits of Police Arrest Powers THE power of the police to arrest individuals suspected of committing crimes is one of the most visible and controversial aspects of law enforcement. In Nigeria, that authority is extensive and backed by statutory provisions under the Police Act 2020 and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015. However, […]
Rising Conversations Around Paternity Testing IN recent years, paternity testing has become a sensitive but increasingly discussed issue in Nigerian households. With advances in genetic science and greater public awareness of DNA testing, some husbands have begun requesting paternity confirmation when doubts arise about a child’s biological origin. While the issue often triggers emotional reactions […]
The Legal Reality Behind Infidelity IN many societies, adultery carries significant social and moral stigma. In Nigeria, however, the legal treatment of infidelity is more complex than many people assume. Contrary to widespread belief, adultery is generally not classified as a criminal offence under the criminal laws applicable in most parts of the country. Legal […]
Reform or Regression? AN amendment to Clause 60 of the Electoral Act by the Senate has reopened debate about the balance between technological reform and electoral credibility in Nigeria. The revised clause mandates electronic transmission of polling unit results to INEC’s IREV portal. The reform appears aligned with growing demands for real-time transparency following controversies […]