BL – May 2012 – L1 – SB – Q3A – Sources of Nigerian Law

List the sources of Nigerian law.

Question

Nigerian law is rich both in respect to source and contents. You are required to list any FIVE sources of Nigerian Law.

Answer

Legislation: This includes Acts of the National Assembly and State Assemblies, which are primary sources of law in Nigeria.
Judicial Precedent: The decisions made by higher courts serve as authoritative legal precedents for lower courts in similar cases.
Customary Law: This refers to the traditional laws recognized in Nigeria, particularly among indigenous communities, which govern their customs and practices.
Received English Law: This comprises English common law and statutes that were in force in Nigeria as of January 1, 1900, and are still applicable unless modified by local legislation.
International Treaties and Conventions: These are agreements entered into by Nigeria with other nations that become part of Nigerian law upon ratification.