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POWER OR LAW : WHICH ONE PROTECTS THE NIGERIA CITIZENS?

 


By Promise Odejide 

Although I am not a fan of Korean dramas, but my personal person recommended one to me and said it was interesting. Since I was bored and had nothing else to do, I decided to watch it. As I was watching the movie, I imagined how it would be if Nigeria was the setting instead of Korea. The movie is called Joseon Attorney: A Morality, and it made me reflect on the relationship between power and law in Nigeria. The movie is about a lawyer who seeks revenge for his parents' death and becomes a hero for the common people by fighting against corruption and injustice in the Joseon dynasty. The movie shows how power can be abused by those who have it, and how law can be used as a tool to protect or oppress the people.

In Nigeria, power and law are often in​ter​twist​ed, and sometimes in conflict. Nigeria has a federal system of government, with three tiers: the federal, state, and local governments. Each tier has its own legislative, executive, and judicial powers, as well as its own sources of revenue.  However, the federal government has more power and resources than the state and local governments, and often interferes with their affairs.  For example, the federal government controls the allocation of oil revenues, which account for about 90% of Nigeria's export earnings. This creates a lot of tension and resentment among the states, especially those in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, where environmental degradation and poverty are rampant. 

The Constitution of Nigeria is the supreme law of the country, and it guarantees the rights and freedoms of all citizens.  However, the Constitution is not always respected or enforced by those in power. Nigeria has four distinct legal systems: English law, common law, customary law, and Sharia law. These legal systems sometimes contradict each other, and create confusion and conflict among the people. For instance, Sharia law is applied in some northern states where Islam is the dominant religion, but it is not recognized by the federal government or other states. Sharia law imposes harsh punishments for crimes such as adultery, theft, and blasphemy, which violate human rights standards. 

The judiciary is supposed to be independent and impartial, but it is often influenced by political pressure and corruption.  Judges are appointed by the president or the governors, depending on the level of court.  They are also subject to removal or transfer by the same authorities.  This makes them vulnerable to manipulation and intimidation by those who have power or money. Many cases are delayed or dismissed for lack of evidence or witnesses, or due to bribery or threats.  The poor and marginalized have limited access to justice, as they cannot afford legal fees or representation. 

Therefore, power and law in Nigeria are not always in harmony, but often in conflict. Power can be used to uphold or undermine the law, depending on who wields it and for what purpose. Law can be used to protect or oppress the people, depending on how it is interpreted and enforced. The movie Joseon attorney: a morality reminds us that we need lawyers who are courageous and principled, who can use the law to defend the rights and interests of the people against tyranny and injustice. We also need a legal system that is fair and transparent, that respects the diversity and dignity of all citizens. Only then can we achieve peace and progress in Nigeria.


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