Lesson 1
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), is the grundnorm of the country's legal system, establishing the framework for governance, fundamental rights, and the relationship between the government and citizens.
Constitutional law in Nigeria is rooted in this document, which has undergone several amendments since its adoption.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria has the final say on the interpretation of the Constitution, ensuring its provisions are upheld and enforced.
The Constitution's principles of federalism, separation of powers, and rule of law form the bedrock of Nigeria's democratic governance, shaping the country's political, social, and economic landscape.
Understanding constitutional law is essential for promoting justice, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Constitution establishes a federal system of government, dividing powers between the central government and the 36 states.
This federal structure is designed to promote national unity while recognizing regional diversity.
The Constitution also provides for the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, ensuring checks and balances to prevent abuse of authority.
Fundamental rights are enshrined in Chapter IV of the Constitution, guaranteeing individual freedoms such as liberty, equality, and freedom of expression.
These rights are protected by the courts, which have jurisdiction to enforce them against government agencies and private individuals. However, certain rights may be limited by law for reasons such as national security, public order, or morality.