EXAMINATION OF RIGHT TO LIFE IN NIGERIA

ABSRACT

This research work examines the scope of right to life as well as the extent of its applicability of the laws in Nigeria. It also takes into consideration the existing legal framework on the subject matter. Both local and International legislations are put in place to clearly state the right to life: despite these legislations the citizens still suffer violations of the fundamental right such as Constitutional derogations and indiscriminate killing. The work critically examines the Constitutional provision on right to life with the view of identifying the exceptions (derogations) to the right. Furthermore, the research examines State practice as touching the subject matter, the institutional mechanisms for the enforcement of this fundamental right. This work also examines the challenges encountered in the enforcement and other legal issues such as abortion and euthanasia bothering the subject matter. This research recommends certain measures that should be put in place in order to put an end to the violation of right to life in Nigeria. Which includes the amendment of Section 33 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended (2011), granting financial autonomy to human right institutions and proper orientation of security agencies on the use of force. Thereby making the right to life to be treated with sanctity and total respect.