| 1 |
Author(s):
Adeogun Richard Adeniyi, Simeon Ola Oni (Ph.D.).
Page No : 1-12
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Ownership and Compulsory Acquisition under Customary Land Tenure in South-West Nigeria: A Legal and Socio-Cultural Analysis.
Abstract
The current research seeks to explore the concept of ownership and compulsory acquisition of land under customary land tenure regime in South West Nigeria with explicit reference to the legal and cultural contexts. The study focuses on the nature and the system of customary land tenure, impact of statutory compulsory acquisition and compensation regimes. Collectively, data was obtained through interviews with community leaders, land owners and legal professionals, using a qualitative research approach, as well as through a doctrinal analysis of statutes laws and customs. The analysis provides evidence of discrepancies in the statutory and customary land laws concerning tenure, and security and compensation. This exercise usually come with the word compulsory, and given that customary landowners rarely have formal documents backing up their land ownership rights they find themselves in a very vulnerable situation. This study identified that compensation mechanisms failed genuinely to address the economic, cultural, and spiritual loss inherent in land, which sustained community concerns. Moreover, a high level of gender disparity still exists in the country, for example, women cannot benefit from statutory laws, nor are they protected in accordance with customary laws. According to the study, there is need to reform and put in place appropriate legislation, adoption of new measures to bring customary land rights into Statutory measures, allocation of funds towards compensation and for the enhancement of participatory governance.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Omowumi Omotayo Ogunkunle, Olu Ojedokun.
Page No : 13-23
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The Legal Framework for Alternative Dispute Resolution in Academic Staff Union of Universities’ Trade Dispute: Challenges and Prospects.
Abstract
This paper examines trade disputes arising from industrial actions taken by the ASUU in Nigeria with particular reference to ADR for the redress of these disputes and why ADR is relevant as an arbitral remedy to the treatment of such disputes. Applying the doctrinal research approach, it measures the prospects of ADR systems in relations to legal statutes like the Trade Disputes Act and case laws while comparing arbitration, mediation and conciliation as forms of ADR. It was established that ADR is a worthy approach as it comes bearing benefits like cost effectiveness compared to court proceedings, fast, and less hostility when compared to the parties in dispute. But this advancement is inadequate because its use in several context faces major barriers that include the autocratic power of the Minister of Labour, low observance by the relevant stakeholders, and poor support to enforce arbitral awards. The study then offers policy recommendations that seek to minimize the involvement of ministers while at the same time ensuring the award’s decisions are easily enforceable; as well as awareness creation programmes for all key players on ADR. These could completely change the face of industrial relations in the Nigerian academic sector especially when it comes to Asuu strikes which are very frequent hence disrupting learning. From adopting ADR mechanisms in management of labour disputes in Nigeria, there is an opportunity to minimize on the litigation and strikes in order to foster stability and growth of education sector in Nigeria.
| 3 |
Author(s):
David Aniefiok Titus (Ph.D.).
Page No : 24-40
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Like Country, Like Church: Administrative Perspectives.
Abstract
Generally, a country’s government, as an umbrella-institution, accommodates state institutions like the judiciary, military, education, finance et cetera and the non-state institutions like the family, church, mosque et cetera. Also, the strength or otherwise of a country largely depends on the strength or otherwise of the subordinate institutions and vice versa; hence the popular negative notion of “strong individuals but weak institutions” in developing states like Nigeria. To this end, this paper sought answers to the following questions: is there a significant relationship between the Nigerian country’s administration and those of its church-institutions? To what extent has Nigerian country’s administration influenced those of its church-institutions? The data sources for answers to those questions were derived from secondary sources (descriptive method of analysis) as well as Participant Observation Technique (POT). The paper found and concluded that indeed, most organizations/institutions (secular or religious) resemble their host country significantly. The paper therefore recommended among others, that administrators of the Nigerian country should as a matter of utmost importance, take responsibility for the goings-on in religious organizations (church in particular) and urgently move away from their perennial elitist disposition to the populist. This, would not only enhance Jeremy Bentham’s “greatest happiness for the greatest number” in the country but influence religious leaders and their respective organizations to follow suit; not vice versa.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Udo Edidiong Udo, Abasiekong Hannah Solomon, Udo Agnes Umana.
Page No : 41-57
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Workplace Discrimination and Organizational Growth in Exxonmobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The researchers examined workplace discrimination and organizational growth in ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State. The core objective of the study was to determine the relationship between workplace discrimination and organizational growth in ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State. The researchers adopted survey research design. The study population centered on all the employees of ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State. A sample size of 95 respondents were selected for the study. The assembled sample had the same proportion of individuals as the entire population; thus, complete enumeration sampling procedures was used to obtain the data for the study. Questionnaire were the main instrument for data collection. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) Analysis was used to analyse the data from the field. The result revealed a positive and significant relationship between the proxies of workplace discrimination (Gender Discrimination and Ethnic Discrimination) and organizational growth in ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State. The researchers concluded that promoting gender equality and reducing ethnic discrimination among employees will result in an increase in organizational growth. They further recommended that ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State should implement targeted gender sensitivity training programs and promote equitable opportunities for career advancement. Also, ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited, Akwa Ibom State should adopt policies that celebrate diversity, ensure fair recruitment practices, and foster inclusive teamwork.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Gbadebo Oluwamayowa Oyebolatito, Akande Olubunmi.
Page No : 58-68
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Influence of NGO’s on the Control of Early Marriage in Borno State (2018-2022).
Abstract
Being a social problem, this research thus scoped its analysis on how Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) has been fighting early marriage in Borno State, Nigeria within the period 2018 to 2022. Child marriage iscommon in the region and is fueled by poverty, tradition and Boko Haram. These factors as well as low implementation of protective laws are a violation of human rights and puts young girls at the mercy of gender based violence, health risks and educational exclusion. This research uses evaluation design in a case study of four NGOs to assess the interventions made. Results were obtained from structured questionnaires and interviews: gender equality promotion programs; school based programs; community mobilisation programs; and media advocacy. Research findings establish that these multi-sectoral strategies have had direct positive impacts on awareness creation and early marriage, to a small degree. Despite these promising tools, cultural resistance, funding constraints and insecurity limits their efficiency. Specifically, the study finds that there is a dire need to increase implementation of policies, involve traditional/religious leaders in program, and revive antipoverty campaigns for education. Future research has to center program evaluations for the long term and discuss displacement, for instance, as an intersectional concept. A closer look at these gaps will help stakeholders to develop better and more effective measures toward ending early marriage in conflict-prone areas.
| 6 |
Author(s):
David Olusanjo.
Page No : 69-84
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West African Crises: Why is ECOWAS Successful in Imposing Democratic Norms in Some West African Countries and Fail in Others?
Abstract
This research examines the successes of ECOWAS in some West African countries after its adoption of the Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance in countries where there has been unconstitutional change of government such as Guinea Bissau in 2012, Gambia in 2017, Mali in 2013 and Cote d’ Ivoire in 2003. Also, it explores countries such as Mali in 2020, Guinea in 2021, Burkina Faso 2022, and Niger in 2023 where ECOWAS has failed in upholding and restoring democratic ideals. The study adopts qualitative data with both primary materials such as official ECOWAS documents, reports, and communiqués and secondary sources such as academic literature, media reports, and scholarly assessments. The main argument of the study is that despite ECOWAS successes in upholding democratic norms in some Western African countries after its adoption of the Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, internal dynamics, western influences, failure to introduce term-limits, ineffective and inconsistent sanctions account for its drawbacks.
| 7 |
Author(s):
David Olusanjo.
Page No : 85-101
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The Impact of Electoral Law Reforms on Voters’ Turnout in sub-Saharan Africa Countries
Abstract
How and to what extent does electoral law reform influence voter turnout in sub-Saharan African countries? To address this question, this study aims to empirically investigate the impact of electoral law reform on voter turnout using panel data and cross-national evidence from sub-Saharan African countries. The central argument is that electoral law reform that includes easy registration of voters and reducing barriers to political participation measured through the introduction of biometric voter registration and verification system to enhance the integrity and efficiency of elections leads to increased voter turnout in African countries. While the results from the regression analysis of panel data did not support the hypothesis that electoral law reform leads to increased voter turnout, the qualitative case studies provide evidence of factors that occasioned decreased voter turnout post-electoral reform.
Keywords: Election; Reform; Voter turnout; Electoral System Design; Sub-Saharan Africa
| 8 |
Author(s):
Odetunde Adeola Isiaka.
Page No : 102-110
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Examining the Effectiveness of Restorative Justice as an Alternative Approach to Traditional Punitive Measures in Handling Corruption Cases.
Abstract
This study critically examines the effectiveness of restorative justice as an alternative to traditional punitive measures in handling corruption cases. Rooted in restorative justice theory, which emphasizes accountability, harm reparation, and reconciliation, the study explores whether mechanisms such as mediation, victim-offender dialogues, and community restitution can address corruption more effectively than punitive approaches like imprisonment and fines. The theoretical framework is supported by scholars such as Braithwaite and Zehr , who argue that restorative justice fosters transparency, encourages voluntary disclosures, and enhances public trust. However, challenges such as political interference, legal constraints, and concerns about leniency remain significant obstacles. Using a qualitative research approach, this study conducts a comparative analysis of case studies from South Africa, Colombia, Nigeria, and Brazil, where restorative justice mechanisms have been implemented in corruption cases. Data is collected from legal documents, anti-corruption reports, and expert interviews, with thematic analysis employed to evaluate effectiveness. Findings indicate that restorative justice leads to higher asset recovery rates and increased public trust but requires robust legal frameworks to prevent misuse. The study concludes that while restorative justice is not a standalone solution, it can complement punitive measures to create a more balanced and effective anti-corruption strategy.
Keywords: Restorative Justice, Punitive measures, Corruption, Anti-corruption, legal constraints.
Word Count: 198
This study critically examines the effectiveness of restorative justice as an alternative to traditional punitive measures in handling corruption cases. Rooted in restorative justice theory, which emphasizes accountability, harm reparation, and reconciliation, the study explores whether mechanisms such as mediation, victim-offender dialogues, and community restitution can address corruption more effectively than punitive approaches like imprisonment and fines. The theoretical framework is supported by scholars such as Braithwaite and Zehr , who argue that restorative justice fosters transparency, encourages voluntary disclosures, and enhances public trust. However, challenges such as political interference, legal constraints, and concerns about leniency remain significant obstacles. Using a qualitative research approach, this study conducts a comparative analysis of case studies from South Africa, Colombia, Nigeria, and Brazil, where restorative justice mechanisms have been implemented in corruption cases. Data is collected from legal documents, anti-corruption reports, and expert interviews, with thematic analysis employed to evaluate effectiveness. Findings indicate that restorative justice leads to higher asset recovery rates and increased public trust but requires robust legal frameworks to prevent misuse. The study concludes that while restorative justice is not a standalone solution, it can complement punitive measures to create a more balanced and effective anti-corruption strategy.
Keywords: Restorative Justice, Punitive measures, Corruption, Anti-corruption, legal constraints.
Word Count: 198
This study critically examines the effectiveness of restorative justice as an alternative to traditional punitive measures in handling corruption cases. Rooted in restorative justice theory, which emphasizes accountability, harm reparation, and reconciliation, the study explores whether mechanisms such as mediation, victim-offender dialogues, and community restitution can address corruption more effectively than punitive approaches like imprisonment and fines. The theoretical framework is supported by scholars such as Braithwaite (2002) and Zehr (2002), who argue that restorative justice fosters transparency, encourages voluntary disclosures, and enhances public trust. However, challenges such as political interference, legal constraints, and concerns about leniency remain significant obstacles. Using a qualitative research approach, this study conducts a comparative analysis of case studies from South Africa, Colombia, Nigeria, and Brazil, where restorative justice mechanisms have been implemented in corruption cases. Data is collected from legal documents, anti-corruption reports, and expert interviews, with thematic analysis employed to evaluate effectiveness. Findings indicate that restorative justice leads to higher asset recovery rates and increased public trust but requires robust legal frameworks to prevent misuse. The study concludes that while restorative justice is not a standalone solution, it can complement punitive measures to create a more balanced and effective anti-corruption strategy
| 9 |
Author(s):
Amakiri Jackson Fred, Nein Godknows (Ph.D.), Oyinmiebi Peter Thankgod.
Page No : 111-124
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Interpersonal Relations and Public Service Performance in Nigeria: A Study of Bayelsa State Public Service.
Abstract
This research study on interpersonal relations and the performance of public servants in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The main objective is ascertained whether interpersonal relations can enhance performance in public service in Bayelsa state, Nigeria. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The research collated quantitative data from structured questionnaires filled by public servants and data from interviews of some civil servants of different rank through purposive method. This was justified by the fact that it enabled the researchers to capture both the forms and the contents of the interpersonal relationship, plus the frequency density and flow of the interaction network. The results showed significant differences in communication preferences. 56 % of respondents preferred face-to-face conversation. Other issues were ineffective role definition and interdepartmental conflict influencing performance. The quantitative surveys used stratified random sampling to gain a wide population range, while the qualitative surveys used purposive sampling to gain knowledge of approved informants. The quantitative data was analyzed using statistical methods. Conversely, the qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis, facilitating a robust quantitative assessment of the relationship between interpersonal relationships and the performance of public servants. The results unveiled a moderate and significant positive relationship between interpersonal relations and public service delivery outcomes. This finding instills hope and optimism, that improving interpersonal relationships can potentially improve public service performance in public service in Bayelsa state, Nigeria. This study affirms understanding of how interpersonal relations can be harnessed to address issues in delivering public services.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Sakpere Wilson, Odetunde Adeola Isiaka, Ibekwe Emmanuel Chidi.
Page No : 125-135
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Policing the Cyberspace: Jurisprudential Approaches.
Abstract
The study, Policing the Cyberspace: Cyber Jurisprudential Approaches, studies complex tasks and legal measures needed for governing an informational environment. Given that cyberspace is currently a hotbed of crime including hacking, ransomware, and fraud among others the paper explores how legal concepts can be used to address transnational crime. Employing a qualitative methodology that includes analysis of academic literature, legal rulings, and case studies, the research addresses four key questions: opportunities and challenges in the development of legal frameworks, and potential issues with cybersecurity and its legal regulation, including the current state of cyber laws, principal ethical problems with privacy and freedom that may appear in legislation, effects of the International cooperation in the sphere of cybersecurity and the role of artificial intelligence in the legislation. Issues that are identified include privacy, surveillance, sovereignty of international laws and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence. Most of the ideas of the given study are focused on the conditionality of the need for a dynamic approach to the development of juridical concepts that should link security with the respect of personal freedom, enhance the cooperation of states, and take into account the possibilities of technologies safely. Proposals outlined are the creation of an ethical framework for surveillance technologies, empowering under-represented countries and interdisciplinary cooperation. The policy implications of this work are to assist policymaker’s, law enforcement agencies and hence legal practitioners in establishing sound legal frameworks for cyberspace governance while at the same time preserving freedom.
| 11 |
Author(s):
Grace Ayodele Arowolo, Sabitiyu Abosede Lawal.
Page No : 136-157
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A Review of the Legal and Regulatory Frameworks as Pathways to Fostering Smart Cities in Nigeria.
Abstract
The creation of smart cities aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. This paper explores the role of laws and policies in promoting the development of smart cities within Nigeria. It assesses existing frameworks, identifies gaps, and highlights potential areas for reform, drawing insights from South Korea, which is known for being the first country to introduce a Smart City Act. Preliminary findings indicate that while Nigeria has made progress in implementing urban development policies and other sector-specific laws, there is no comprehensive national law dedicated to smart city governance like South Korea’s. Additionally, current Nigerian laws have not been updated to address the opportunities and challenges associated with smart cities. The study underscores that creating smart cities in Nigeria requires more than just technological progress; it necessitates a comprehensive legal framework that integrates innovation, governance, and active community involvement. The article argues that by overcoming legal and regulatory obstacles and aligning urban policies with smart city principles, Nigeria can build more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable urban areas. It recommends, among other things, the adoption of a national law for smart city governance and the reform of existing laws.
