Summary
The Nigerian Criminal Code is the apex codified law in Nigeria for criminal investigation, trial and punishment of criminals. It is derived from the Nigeria Criminal Code Act 1916,[1] Nigeria Penal Code Act 1960[2] and other criminal laws enacted by Nigerian Parliament from time to time. The latest consolidated version of the code is contained in Nigerian Criminal Code 1990.
Background edit
The Nigerian Criminal Code has been adapted from different laws in force in the country in different time periods since its colonial occupation by foreign governments. It includes the local African common laws and English laws borrowed from British dependencies.[3]
Scope and limitations edit
It may be noted that the criminal code in Nigeria does not apply uniformly to all people in all provinces of the country. Most provisions of the Nigeria Penal Code apply only to the Northern Provinces in Nigeria.[citation needed]
References edit
- ^ "Nigeria Criminal Code Act". Reference World. Retrieved 16 March 2021.
- ^ "Nigeria Penal Code Act". Cornell Law School. Retrieved 16 March 2021.
- ^ Morris, H. F. (1970). "How Nigeria Got Its Criminal Code". Journal of African Law. 14 (3): 137–154. doi:10.1017/S0021855300004836. JSTOR 744581. S2CID 145532950. Retrieved 16 March 2021.