The Written Words that Cannot Testify: Legal Limits to Extra-Judicial Statements of a Witness
Introduction In the heart of Nigeria’s criminal justice system lies a troubling paradox that continues to undermine the integrity of police investigations and the prosecution of crimes. This paradox is the persistent and habitual reliance by law enforcement agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police Force, on extrajudicial statements of witnesses obtained during investigations, which are subsequently […]
Who is the Real Employer? – Navigating Liabilities in Triangular Employment in Nigeria
1.0 Introduction An employment relationship is founded upon a contract between the person or body (called the employer) who seeks to retain the services of another (called the employee) effectively putting the employee under their payroll . While this two-party, traditional relationship remains common, triangular employment is becoming more prevalent in Nigeria and globally. This […]
Nigeria’s EV Opportunity: Is Nigeria’s Solid Mineral Sector ready for this opportunity?
Dear Readers, In a strategic development poised to reshape Nigeria’s industrial landscape, China is set to deepen its collaboration with Nigeria through the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) factories. During a recent courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, Ambassador Dunhai reiterated China’s commitment to elevating its engagement with […]
Revived But Not Reformed: The Stalled Progress of Nigeria’s State Refineries
Dear Readers, Barely a month after the much-celebrated reopening of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, the Refinery has come to a grinding halt.[1] Commissioned in 1978 and inactive for decades due to technical inefficiencies, the 125,000 barrels-per-day refinery resumed operations on December 30, 2024, only to shut down on January 25, 2025, due to […]
Navigating the Conundrum of Holding Charges in Nigeria: Reconciling Statutory Provisions with Constitutional Presumption of Innocence
Introduction The concept of a “holding charge”, whereby a defendant is brought before a court to secure a remand order pending investigation or legal advice, presents a profound legal paradox and continues to evoke unease in Nigeria’s criminal justice system. The courts have consistently and categorically denounced the practice, branding it unconstitutional, alien to Nigerian […]
NERC’s Order on the Delineation of Discos’ Assets and Liabilities
Introduction Nigeria’s Power Sector is undergoing a significant transition following the 2023 constitutional amendment and the enactment of the Electricity Act 2023 (the “Act”), which together enable a two-tier regulatory framework; Federal and State-level regulation. Under the newly introduced framework, a State seeking to assume regulatory control over electricity activities within its territory must enact […]
The Law of Defamation in Nigeria: A Shield and A Sword
Introduction The entire gamut of the law of defamation revolves around two forms: libel (written) and slander (oral). Carefully observing how this law operates will lead to the undeniable conclusion that people should mind their own business and avoid commenting on issues. This is not the aim of this law, and in its operation, the […]
Airlines Liability Caps: Exploring Alternative Remedies for Passengers
Introduction. Air passengers and carriers/airlines are constantly involved in the thorny affair of breached rights and obligations and the consequential liabilities that result. Issues arise from missed or delayed flights, refunds, loss of baggage, and personal belongings, among other matters. What is manifest from the foregoing is that passengers are usually left in limbo and […]
Deep Sea Mining (Part 2) – Legal Framework from a Global & Local Perspective
Introduction In Part 1 of our article, we explored the opportunities and challenges associated with Deep Sea Mining (DSM), with a focus on the role of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and its Mining Code, which serves as the primary framework for regulating mineral-related activities in the international seabed area, also known as “the Area.” […]
ISA 2025: What Investors Need to Know About Nigeria’s New Capital Market Law
INTRODUCTION The Investments and Securities Act 2025 (“ISA 2025” or the “New Act”) was signed into law in March 2025, repealing the Investments and Securities Act of 2007 (“ISA 2007 or the “Old Act”). This new legislation aims to strengthen existing regulations, protect investors, and open up new opportunities. It also codifies many of the […]
