| 1 |
Author(s):
C. O. Okwelum (Ph.D.), A. O. Okwelum, S. U. Moluno (Ph.D.), M. D. Ogwezzy (Ph.D.).
Page No : 1-13
|
Locating Criminal Persecution in Nigeria: The Lawyer and The Citizen.
Abstract
The asymmetric relationship between a lawyer and a citizen is sometimes disturbing. Left to chance, the oppression of the citizen by the lawyer can be cited in Nigeria with relative ease. In the rural community of Emu in Delta State incidences of criminal trials tilting toward criminal persecution had be fingered. The citizen was at the mercy of the lawyer who frequently resorted to his unique position in the legal equation to trigger the law enforcement process against the citizen especially when he had pre-existing misunderstanding with the lawyer. This study adopted the content analysis of court processes involving the parties. It found that due to the relative social inequality of the parties the citizen was often at the receiving end of the legal rod which the Counsel employed to the point of stigmatizing the citizen as an ex-convict. The legal principle that motive had no role to play in criminal justice was drawn to a snapping limit! The principle of reasonable cause of action constantly came to play to cloak the subterranean ill will Counsel had against the citizen due to communal differences. Immunity against prosecution inures to Judges like a Pilate while the citizen suffered from the ill-will of Counsel. It was thusly recommended that motive should in appropriate cases be taken into consideration in criminal prosecutions or in review on appeal.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Adenike Awe Esq..
Page No : 14-23
|
GMOs, Human Rights, and International Law: An Examination of the Implications of GMOs on Human Rights Protection.
Abstract
The impact of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) on human rights has attracted much attention recently, sparking debates from commentators. This is with particular to the right to information, the right to food, and the right to a healthy environment. GMOs were developed out of necessity to meet the increasing demand for food for a growing population. Further research has indicated that GMOs not only enhance food production but also offer greater nutritional value and are more resistant to pests, diseases, and harsh climate conditions. This suggests a win-win situation, as GMOs improve food security, reduce hunger, and enhance agricultural efficiency. However, there are concerns that GMOs pose risks to environmental sustainability, particularly with the loss of biodiversity, which can significantly disrupt the balance of the food chain and human health. The doctrinal research methodology will be adopted in this research, and reliance will be placed on journal papers, online resources, reports, and primary sources. This study concludes by recommending the creation of stricter laws on labeling GMO foods and the need for independent research to understand the long-term effect of GMOs on human health and the environment—equally, the stretching of GMO international regulation.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Awe Adenike Esq..
Page No : 24-35
|
Cybersecurity and AI: The Role of International Law in Preventing and Responding to AI-Enabled Cyber Threats.
Abstract
Expectedly, International laws play an important role in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) by offering a framework to address new threats and regulate the development and application of AI technologies, especially with regard to potential cross-border cyberattacks. Imperatively, they ensure responsible behaviour by States and help to mitigate potential conflicts resulting from AI-powered cyber operations. However, because these technologies are developing so quickly, the extant laws that are supposed to address cyber threats arising from AI struggle to respond – partly because of the lack of flexibility of stakeholders. This paper is analytical in approach. It aims to examine international responses to AI-enabled cyber threats. In the end, it finds that the existing legal framework lacks robust provisions to address this growing threat. While the Malabo Convention lacks adequate domestication from the African jurisdictions, the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime and the EU GDPR do not have provisions on AI governance. To put this paper in a perspective, some recommendations have been made, such as the adoption of compensatory enforcement mechanisms, enhanced liability mechanisms, and the legislation of a robust legal framework among others.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Mustafe Abdirahman Habane, Willian Hermann Arrey.
Page No : 36-47
|
Political Loyalty and Patronage Politics: Catalyst for Corruption and Weak Governance in Somaliland.
Abstract
This article, titled Political Loyalty and Patronage Politics: Catalyst for Corruption and Weak Governance in Somaliland. investigates the pervasive influence of political patronage and corruption on the efficacy of governance in Somaliland. Patronage politics in Somaliland refers to the practice of appointing and allocating resources to political leaders based on loyalty rather than merit. This negative political practice undermines governance and contributes to institutional weaknesses. How do patronage politics driven by political loyalty contribute to corruption and weak governance in Somaliland? The article Informed by a theoretical framework constructed around a critical review of relevant literature, this analysis draws upon Neo-Patrimonialism Theory and Elite Theory to contextualize the findings within broader socio-political dynamics. Using a qualitative method that involved in-depth interviews and the analysis of secondary data from diverse sources, by the way thematic analysis the study reveals the detrimental impact of loyalty-based appointments on institutional integrity and public service delivery. The findings indicate that, over the past 15 years, successive presidents have appointed ministers primarily based on clientelism and personal loyalty rather than merit, leading to a governance framework where unqualified individuals occupy key positions. Many interviewees noted that this trend has been facilitated by the influence of traditional power structures, such as clans and sultans, alongside prominent business elites who seek to manipulate political processes for their gain. The study further highlights how this reliance on personal connections undermines accountability, as many ministers prioritize clan allegiances over public responsibilities, resulting in confusion about their mandates and a lack of alignment with national objectives. Consequently, public trust in governmental institutions has eroded, reflecting a pressing need for reform. To address these challenges, the article recommends implementing merit-based appointment processes that prioritize qualifications and expertise, strengthening parliamentary oversight mechanisms, and promoting greater civic engagement to enhance transparency and accountability. By emphasizing these reforms, the article aims to contribute to the development of a more effective and responsive governance structure in Somaliland, ultimately facilitating the delivery of quality public services and restoring public confidence in government.
