Volume 43 (2025)

1

Research Article

APPRAISAL OF BEQUEST OF COMPANY SHARES UNDER ISLAMIC LAW

M. A. Deribe^*

This paper appraises the bequest of company shares under Islamic law Shari'a. It examines the permissibility of bequeathing shares, considering them as a form of fungible property mithli or a combination of tangible and intangible assets. The study explores the conditions and restrictions governing such bequests, including the limitations on the bequeathable portion of the estate (typically one-th...

Feb, 2026 pp. 88–112

2

Research Article

AN APPRAISAL OF THE POSITION OF PROMOTERS, PRE-INCORPORATION CONTRACTS AND COMPANY CONTRACTS UNDER NIGERIAN LAW

Ibrahim Umar^*, Dalhat A. Idris

This paper appraised the position of promoters, pre-incorporation contracts and company contracts within the Nigerian legal framework. It examines the Critical role of promoters in the formation of companies, the legal implications of pre-incorporation contracts and the contractual obligations of the company after incorporation. Promoters Play a pivotal role in the formation of companies in Nigeri...

Sep, 2025 pp. 1-14

3

Research Article

CONCEPT OF TRUST AND ALIENATION OF RIGHT OF OCCUPANCY UNDER THE LAND USE ACT, 1978: IS CONSENT REQUIRED FOR CREATION OF TRUST

Abubakar Mohammed Bokani^*

The article examined the provisions of sections 21 and 22 of the Land Use Act, 1978 which provides for consent of the local government or Governor to alienation of Customary Right of Occupancy or Statutory Right of Occupancy respectively. The provisions of the aforementioned sections clearly lay out methods of alienations of right of occupancy for which consent is required and instances where cons...

Sep, 2025 pp. 15-40

4

Research Article

DISSECTING LEGAL PROPRIETARY RIGHTS AND CREATIVE CONTROL IN LITERARY AND NARRATIVE ADAPTATIONS: A NIGERIAN THEATRE AND FILM INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

Godwin Emmanuel Oyedokun^*, Oluwanifemi Ayodele Obaba

This paper critically examines the legal and proprietary rights implicated in the adaptation of literary works within the Nigerian theatre and film industry. While the creative adaptation of folklore, historical narratives, and modern literature has contributed to the rise of Nollywood and stage performance arts in Nigeria, it has also exposed persistent legal and ethical challenges relating to in...

Sep, 2025 pp. 165–190

5

Research Article

AN EXAMINATION OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE PEOPLES' REPUBLIC OF CHINA

Yakubu Babayo^*

There is consensus among theorists and development practitioners that one of the greatest challenges to the development of nations is political leadership. In many developed nations of the world, Political power with effective leadership manifested in the high standard of living of the citizens with the provision of critical infrastructures that render efficient services to ensures human capital d...

Sep, 2025 pp. 41-55

6

Research Article

EXAMINATION OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN NIGERIA

Opeyemi Stephen Ademuagun^*, Oliver Azi

This work examined the current state of financial inclusion in Nigeria, highlighting the legal frameworks that govern access to financial services. It noted that despite an impressive number of bank accounts recorded—223.8 million in total as of December 2022—26% of Nigeria's population remains unbanked, underscoring the need for enhanced financial inclusion strategies. The research focuses on the...

Sep, 2025 pp. 56-71

7

Research Article

ANALYSIS OF THE INTERNATIONAL LEGAL PRINCIPLES FOR THE CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY AND HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION

Fatima Zahara'u Shehu^*

Biodiversity includes all living species and ecosystems. It is important for maintaining a healthy environment and providing resources like food, water, and medicine. These resources are linked to human rights to life, health, and cultural identity. The degradation of biodiversity threatens these rights, prompting the development of international legal frameworks aimed at conserving biodiversity. ...

Sep, 2025 pp. 72–87

8

Research Article

ASSESSING THE LEGAL PROVISIONS FOR TELEMEDICINE IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Okuntade Olayemi Elizabeth AICMC^*, Ifeoluwayimika Bamidele, Bisola Akinleye Esq

This article analyses the legal and institutional systems determining telemedicine in Nigeria and determines potential areas of implementation of the system along with its obstacles. It explores how the existing legislation is supporting the distant provision of healthcare services, including the realms of patient confidentiality, provider licensure, medical malpractice, and technological integrat...

Sep, 2025 pp. 113–135

9

Research Article

AN APPRAISAL OF THE ROLE OF ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING LAWS IN COMBATING FINANCIAL CRIMES AND TERRORIST FINANCING AMIDST GLOBAL GEOPOLITICAL TURMOIL

Lateefat Adeola Bello^*

In today’s rapidly evolving global financial landscape, the rise in financial crimes and terrorist financing continues to threaten the economic and national security of nations. This paper aims to assess the effectiveness of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws in addressing these threats, particularly amid increasing geopolitical instability. The primary objectives are to examine how current AML fram...

Sep, 2025 pp. 136–164

10

Research Article

THE ROLE OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION IN THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE RIGHTS TO FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN NIGERIA

Bashir Mohammed Chalawa^*

This paper examines the role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in safeguarding freedom of expression in Nigeria, a right enshrined in Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution and upheld by international frameworks like the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR). It traces the evolution of this right from the colonial era to the digital age, highlighting persistent violati...

Sep, 2025 pp. 191–218

11

Research Article

WHEN HEALING TURNS HARMFUL: EXPLORING MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE AND THE RISE OF LITIGATION

Ifeoluwayimika Bamidele^*, Bisola Akinleye Esq, Yusuf Misturah Eniola

This paper critically examines medical negligence in Nigeria’s healthcare system and the resulting rise in legal actions. It explores how failures in professional medical practice can transform healthcare from a healing process into one that causes harm and triggers legal liability. The objectives are to analyze the legal framework on medical negligence, review recent judicial decisions and discip...

Sep, 2025 pp. 219–241

12

Research Article

AN OVERVIEW OF AIR POLLUTION AND ITS STATUTORY REGULATORY FRAMEWORK IN NIGERIA

Akwagiobe Richard Akpanke^*, Umo, Maria Angela, Aminu Bakori Mohammed, Akwagiobe Angela Udeh

Air pollution is one of the environmental challenges confronting Nigeria. Air is polluted when chemicals, particulate matter or biological material are emitted into the biosphere in a manner that affects the ecosystem. Being an environmental problem acknowledged by the Nigerian environmental policy, measures are undertaken to regulate it with a view to ameliorating the problem. Nigeria is however ...

Sep, 2025 pp. 242–272

13

Research Article

TRAVERSING TROUBLED WATERS: DECIPHERING THE LEGAL MYSTERY IN THE RED SEA-PIRACY OR TERRORISM?

Awwal Ilyas Magashi^*

The ongoing attacks caused by the Houthis in the Red Sea have sent fears through the shipping industry, highlighting the vulnerability of international trade routes. In a notable incident, a heavily armed Houthi fighter seized a merchant vessel, raising serious concerns about the safety of commercial navigation and prompting various legal questions. Amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, the Red Se...

Sep, 2025 pp. 273–300

14

Research Article

AN APPRAISAL OF THE CHALLENGE OF VERTICAL ALLOCATION OF FUNCTIONS AND REVENUE UNDER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA 1999

Owen Odion Agbonifo-Ezomo^*

The major objective of fiscal federalism is the efficient and effective distribution of functions and revenue among tiers of government in a federation in such a way that there are favourable economic outcomes which promote socioeconomic development. A close examination of the practice of fiscal federalism in Nigeria shows that the sharing of functions and revenue is at two levels: the vertical le...

Sep, 2025 pp. 301–329

15

Research Article

An Examination of the Regulatory Regime for Stem Cell Technology in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects

J.J. NDANA^*, MADU SOJACHUKWU

Stem cell technology offers hope and treatment for a wide range of diseases by replacing damaged cells with new ones derived from stem cells. Recent years have witnessed exponential advancements in clinical trials revolving around stem cell-based therapies. Stem cell technology holds enormous potentials for regenerative medicine. However, harnessing the potentials is bedevilled with challenges. A ...

Sep, 2025 pp. 330–355

16

Research Article

EXAMINATION OF ETHICAL, LEGAL, AND SOCIETAL IMPLICATIONS OF DEATH PENALTY IN NIGERIA

Nengi A. Banigo-Abah^*, Legborsi Tony-Francis

This article comprehensively examines the death penalty, its ethical, legal, and societal dimensions, with a focus on Nigeria. Despite its longstanding use as a punitive measure for capital offences, empirical evidence and global trends increasingly challenge its efficacy as a deterrent for achieving retributive justice. While the death penalty retains constitutional legitimacy in Nigeria, its imp...

Mar, 2025 pp. 72-91

17

Research Article

AN ANALYSIS OF THE LEGAL REGIME FOR CHANGE OF NAMES BY MARRIED WOMEN IN NIGERIA AND ITS POSITION IN ISLAMIC LAW

Salmanu M. Rilwanu^*, Abubakar Suleiman

Changing the surnames of married women is one of the issues affecting married women in these modern days. Some people change their surname out of love at will, based on religion, while some are compelled to change their names due to governmental policies. Change of surname by women due to marriage, divorce, death, or quarrels with husbands is one issue giving rise to complaints of breach of fundam...

Mar, 2025 pp. 47-71

18

Research Article

Rethinking Primogeniture Inheritance: Equity vs. Tradition in Nigeria

ANDREW IKHAYERE IMIEFOH^*

The practice of primogeniture inheritance, a traditional system that favors the firstborn male child in the distribution of family wealth and property, remains deeply entrenched in many Nigerian communities despite evolving social dynamics and legal reforms. This paper examines the practice of primogeniture inheritance in Nigeria and its implications for social equity and justice in contemporary s...

Mar, 2025 pp. 345-363

19

Research Article

An Analysis of the Petroleum Industry Act on Upstream Oil Exploration Governance

OLANREWAJU ALADEITAN^*, JOHN OLISA

In response to contemporary challenges in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, such as overconcentration of powers in the hands of the Minister of Petroleum Resources, the overburdening of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation with the dual responsibility of regulator and operator in the petroleum industry, it became imperative to implement reforms ensuring maximum and sustainable value from its ...

Mar, 2025 pp. 315-344

20

Research Article

A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK ON THE CRIME OF GENOCIDE AND THE NEED FOR EXPENDING THE VICTIM BASE

Daniel F Atidoga^*, Yahaya Adeyi

This research revisits the legal framework for the crime of genocide, emphasizing the need to expand the victim base beyond the current four protected groups—national, ethnic, racial, and religious—recognised under international law. The problem lies in the rigid categorisation that excludes many vulnerable groups from protection against mass atrocities. This research aimed to propose a more inclu...

Mar, 2025 pp. 292-314

21

Research Article

NAVIGATING THE TAX LANDSCAPE OF THE GIG ECONOMY IN GHANA

Abdallah Ali-Nakyea^*

The gig economy has emerged as a growing sector of business and economic endeavour in all countries across the globe. The COVID-19 pandemic provided a catalyst for the speedy and continued growth of the gig economy as internet platforms and other computer-based communication mechanisms, such as meetings and business interactions via Teams, Zoom, and Webex, among others, blossomed. Ride-hailing com...

Mar, 2025 pp. 279-291

22

Research Article

JUDICIAL INTERPRETATION OF CONSENT IN RAPE CASES IN NIGERIA: SOCIO-CULTURAL DYNAMICS AND LEGAL IMPACTS

Peter Itsueli^*, Ogheneruona Okuba

The concept of consent lies at the heart of rape jurisprudence, yet its interpretation remains a contentious issue in Nigeria, where cultural, religious, and societal norms heavily influence the judicial process. This article critically examines how Nigerian courts interpret consent in rape cases, considering the statutory framework, judicial reasoning, and socio-cultural factors that shape these ...

Mar, 2025 pp. 250-277

23

Research Article

AGF VAG ABIA STATE & 36 ORS (2024): DEMYSTIFYING THE PROS AND PITFALLS OF THE SUPREME COURT DECISION ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTONOMY

Ruqayyatu Modibbo^*, Oliver Gift Chukkol

The recent decision of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in Attorney General of the Federation v. Attorneys General of Abia State & 36 Others has sparked widespread debate, as it seemingly grants fiscal autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 Local Governments, recognizing them as full third-tier governments. This article aims to examine the ruling through two key questions: (1) whether the decision aligns with the ...

Mar, 2025 pp. 233-249

24

Research Article

APPRAISING THE STATUS OF COMBATANTS AND PRISONERS OF WAR STATUS IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGY IN INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW

Elizabeth Jalo-Okotie^*

This paper examines the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in armed conflict and its implications under International Humanitarian Law (IHL). As militaries increasingly feature AI technologies into warfare, questions arise regarding the applicability of IHL principles—such as distinction, proportionality, and necessity—to autonomous systems. While AI has the potential to enhance operati...

Mar, 2025 pp. 209-232

25

Research Article

AN EXAMINATION OF THE PENALTY FOR DELAYED PAYMENT IN FINANCIAL OBLIGATION IN NON-INTEREST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA

Saeed Bello^*

Islamic Finance has distinguished itself from other financial systems by its compliance with Shari’ah principles and rulings. Shari’ah compliance is what distinguishes an Islamic financial institution from a conventional financial institution. The conventional financial system handles default in payment of financial obligation by charging interest on customers. Since charging interest is against t...

Mar, 2025 pp. 197-208

26

Research Article

DISCOURSE ON THE CONCEPT AND VEHICLES OF BONDS IN ISLAMIC LAW

Muhammad Amin Babaji^*

Sukuk, often referred to as Islamic bonds, represent a unique and innovative financial instrument within the realm of Islamic finance. Originating from the principles of Islamic law, Sukuk offers a distinct alternative to conventional bonds by adhering to Islamic principles that prohibits the payment or receipt of interest (Riba). Instead of interest-bearing debt, Sukuk are structured as investmen...

Mar, 2025 pp. 173-196

27

Research Article

THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL POLICE ORGANISATION (INTERPOL) IN COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Oluwatosin O. Ogwezzy^*

International Criminal Police Organisation(INTERPOL) played a remarkable role in combating human trafficking, a serious violation of human rights that affects millions globally. Traffickers continuously exploit the use of technology to expand their reach and profits while reducing their risk of detection by law enforcement. This entails using digital platforms for recruitment, trafficking coordina...

Mar, 2025 pp. 137-172

28

Research Article

INTERNATIONAL LEGAL MECHANISMS AGAINST FORCED LABOUR: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES OF IMPLEMENTATION IN NIGERIA

Ngozi Alili^*, Ojonigwu Atidoga

Forced labour remains a critical human rights concern in Nigeria despite Nigeria’s ratification of several international and regional legal instruments aimed at its eradication. The persistence of coercive labour practices, especially within the informal economy, is exacerbated by socio-economic vulnerabilities, outdated domestic legislation, and weak institutional enforcement mechanisms. This stu...

Mar, 2025 pp. 115-136

29

Research Article

AN EXAMINATION OF THE LEGAL FRAMEWORKS FOR CONTROL AND SUPERVISION OF THE NIGERIA POLICE BY THE EXECUTIVE ORGAN OF GOVERNMENT IN NIGERIA

Ijalana Emmanuel Folayan^*

The Nigeria Police is a creation of the Nigerian Constitution and other extant laws. For effective performance of its functions, the Nigeria Police is placed under some institutions which include the executive organ of the government, the legislature and the judiciary, aside from the command control mechanism inherent in the Inspector-General of Police with his subordinate instructors. This paper ...

Mar, 2025 pp. 92-114

30

Research Article

THE OPERATIONAL STANDARD OF THE NIGERIAN POLICE: ISSUES AND THE WAY FORWARD

Oyovwikerhi Imoni-Ogbe^*

What gave impetus to this research is the fact that the Nigerian Police have continuously violated human rights of Nigerian citizens despite the existence of the United Nations’ (UN) globally accepted norms governing the conducts of police officers and the institution of police universally. The aim of this article is therefore to examine the operational standard of the Nigerian Police to determine...

Mar, 2025 pp. 29-46

31

Research Article

PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF ARBITRATION UNDER THE ARBITRATION AND MEDIATION ACT 2023

Ebunoluwa Popoola^*, Bilkisu Hassan

The Arbitration and Mediation Act 2023 was enacted during a period of significant challenges that undermined arbitration’s role as a viable alternative to litigation. An understanding of prospects and challenges of the Act is appropriate as it is the policy of the Nigerian government to make the country a preferred seat for commercial arbitration. The aim of this paper is to examine prospects and ...

Mar, 2025 pp. 1-28