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 […]
Why You Can Be Arrested Without Committing a Crime in Nigeria IN Nigeria, and indeed in many legal systems worldwide, arrest does not equate to guilt. The law allows law enforcement agencies to detain individuals based on reasonable suspicion, rather than conclusive evidence. This distinction—critical to understanding criminal procedure—is often misunderstood by the public, with […]
Rethinking Bride Price and Marital Dissolution ACROSS many Nigerian communities, a long-standing belief persists: that a customary marriage cannot be dissolved unless the husband physically collects the bride price he previously paid. For some women seeking to exit broken unions, this belief has become a source of fear and prolonged uncertainty. However, legal practitioners and […]
Why the Distinction Matters in Law THE concepts of human rights and fundamental rights are central to modern legal systems, yet they are frequently misunderstood or conflated. While both aim to protect human dignity and freedom, constitutional development has drawn a clear legal distinction between the two. This distinction affects how rights are recognised, who […]
Digital Breakups and an Emerging Legal Risk IN the age of social media, romantic relationships increasingly leave behind a permanent digital footprint. Photographs once shared affectionately on Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp often remain long after relationships dissolve. What many users fail to realise, however, is that these lingering images can expose them to significant legal […]