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ESPOUSAL OF ADR TECHNIQUE IN THE PROCEDURE OF THE INDEPENDENT-SHARIAH-COURTS OF SOUTH-WESTERN NIGERIA: (A PROCEDURAL NECESSITY?)
ADR procedure should be adopted in the independent-Shariah-court of West western Nigeria. The people of the south-western rejoin of Nigeria are predominantly Muslims. The people involved in contractual relationships such assyndicated farming, business relationships, and various types of partnerships which could be carried out through Islamic law principally. However, the governing laws in the region are either the customary law or the civil law. Although, their marriages al-Munakaat’ are consummatedonthe basis of al-Malikiyah principles. Nevertheless, when there isa dispute, disagreements, or disengagement, the available forum theycan result to, is thecustomary or the civil law fora which principles are at variance with that of theShari’ah law court. Being Muslims, the people are out rightly disenchant and they clamored for the enactment of a law for the establishment of Shari’ah court in the in all south-western states, as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution, 1999, ‘there shall be for any State that requires it a Shariah court of Appeal for that State’,[1] and was adopted by the northern states. Although, there are said to be independent-Shari’ah-courts in the region. Nevertheless, the ruling and the award of the independent-Shariah-courts arenot binding, and the jurisdiction of the courts is restricted to onlyfamily matters. Additionally, the ruling of the Shari’ah courts in the South-West ismerely advisory. This paper advocates for the annexing of the ADR procedure to the procedure of the independent Shari’ah courts to resolve the non-binding and the procedural challenges, of the Independent-Shari’ah-court. The award of the ADR is binding.
THE ECONOMIC POTENTIALS OF JIZYAH IN ISLAMIC STATE AND PERSONAL INCOME TAX IN NIGERIA: ANY MEETING POINT
Common growth of a state depends on its economic advancement and revenue generated from the individuals and sectors which serves as sources of income of the government in realization of infrastructural expenditures and facilities for the common good of all. Islam levied taxes on Muslims and non-Muslims which were payable to, and managed in Muslim treasury (Bait ul- Maal), from which necessary expenditures were taken care of. In the present time, compared to the previous one, personal income tax equates the then jizyah (head tax) paid by non-Muslims as they have the same objectives and serve the same purpose in actualizing the fiscal responsibilities placed on the government and economic growth of the nation. The paper therefore makes a comparison and dichotomy between the taxation in the modern age and that of taxes levied in an Islamic state, specifically, between Jizyah and personal income tax. Using the doctrinal methodology, this paper analyzes the potentials of the two sources to the economic growth. The work found that the objectives of jizyah and personal income tax are the same and set out the slight differences considering the application, administration and reliefs among other things. It also found that jizyah and personal income tax are seen as instruments of discrimination. The paper therefore recommends that the generated revenue, as it was properly managed in the olden days, should be utilized at the modern state and avoid imposition or levying of outrageous taxes on the citizens of the state; in order to have tax revenue compliance and stabili
Constitutionalizing the Right to a Healthy Environment: A Pathway to Enforcing the SDGs in Nigeria
This article explores the imperative of constitutionalizing the right to a healthy environment in Nigeria as a legal mechanism to enhance the enforceability of environmental dimensions of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Grounded in legal theory and doctrinal analysis, it critiques Nigeria’s current constitutional framework, where environmental protection remains a non-justiciable directive under Section 20 of the 1999 Constitution. Drawing on leading Nigerian case law such as Gbemre v. Shell and Centre for Oil Pollution Watch v. NNPC, the article examines how Nigerian courts have attempted to infer environmental rights through existing fundamental rights. Comparative analysis from South Africa, Kenya, and Colombia illustrate how express constitutional recognition of environmental rights has enabled robust judicial enforcement of environmental standards and advanced sustainable development. The article argues that enshrining the right to a healthy environment in Nigeria’s Constitution would provide a clearer legal foundation for environmental litigation, enhance regulatory accountability, and align domestic law with global sustainability commitments. It concludes that constitutional reform is not only timely but essential to achieving environmental justice and fulfilling Nigeria’s SDG obligations
CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS TACKLING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN NIGERIA
Domestic violence against women in Nigeria is a widespread phenomenon making news headlines on a daily basis with gloomy stories of single parenthood, mutilation, depression, horrific ill treatment, suicide, or even death trailing each occurrence. The home that should ordinarily be a safe haven for such women is turned to a battleground where disagreement and fisticuffs is the currency being spent. Despite the availability of enacted laws and institutional framework put in place to tackle this menace, its surge is still alarmingly high. This study adopts the doctrinal research methodology in critically analyzing existing institutions tackling domestic violence against women. The various trends to violence within Nigeria and in jurisdictions outside Nigeria are also examined. This study reveals the notoriety of the culture of silence and the low reportability of cases of domestic violence. It discusses the likely factors responsible like social stigmatization and how they can be improved upon. The research findings reveal that collaborative efforts between institutions would be rewarding as their activities are interconnected and none can barely function effectively without recourse to one another. The article concludes that domestic violence against women in Nigeria which is incredibly high will nosedive where there is attitudinal change and relevant stakeholders work towards stamping it out. Based on the research findings, the study recommends preventionist strategies like relationship counselling sessions, training and retraining relevant stakeholders in the discharge of their duties. It also recommends the strengthening of available institutions so that the fight against domestic violence will be effective.
Evaluation of Ecological and Health Risks of Heavy Metals in Selected Hand-Dug Wells around Ido-Osun Landfill Site in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.
Background: Groundwater is a vital source of drinking water, especially in developing regions. However, its quality is increasingly compromised by contamination from nearby landfill sites. Objective: This study assessed the physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal concentrations in groundwater around the Ido-Osun landfill, located in Osogbo Local Government Area, Osun State, Nigeria. Methodology: Groundwater samples were collected and analysed using standard procedures. Physicochemical parameters were measured, and heavy metals were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry after acid digestion. Results were compared against World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) guidelines. The Water Quality Index (WQI) was computed to provide an integrated assessment of water safety. Results: While most physicochemical parameters fell within acceptable limits, elevated levels of total dissolved solids (TDS: 429.8 mg/L) and nitrate (NO₃⁻: 37.46 mg/L) were recorded in some samples. Heavy metal analysis revealed concerning concentrations of lead (Pb: 0.03 mg/L), chromium (Cr: 0.24 mg/L), and copper (Cu: 0.16 mg/L). The calculated WQI was 358.84, placing the groundwater in the "extremely poor" category. This classification indicates that the water is unfit for drinking without significant treatment, posing immediate health risks. The WQI integrates various water quality parameters into a single value, and such a high score signals serious contamination affecting the overall usability of the water source. The health risk assessment further revealed a high non-carcinogenic hazard index (HI: 29.88), driven mainly by lead exposure (HQ: 29.25), far surpassing the safety threshold of 1. Carcinogenic risk values for lead (0.00057) and chromium (0.00027) also exceeded the USEPA’s acceptable range (1.0 × 10⁻⁶ to 1.0 × 10⁻⁴), indicating a potential lifetime cancer risk. Conclusion: The presence of elevated lead and chromium, along with a critically high WQI, underscores the urgent threat posed by the landfill to groundwater quality and public health. Immediate remediation strategies, consistent groundwater monitoring, and improved waste management practices are essential to prevent long-term health consequences for nearby communities.
 
Caffeine Exposure during Pregnancy Alters Reproductive Hormone Profiles and Induces Oxidative Stress in F1 Generation Male Piglets
Background: Exposure to environmental toxicants, including caffeine, has been associated with adverse reproductive outcomes, such as reduced fertility. Objective: This study investigated the effects of prenatal caffeine exposure on selected antioxidant, hormonal, and lipid profiles in first filial (F1) generation male piglets. Methodology: Twenty (20) randomly selected male F1 piglets were used: ten from sows exposed to caffeine during pregnancy (treatment group) and ten from non-exposed sows (control group). Both groups were cohabited with male pigs at a female-to-male ratio of 5:1 and received standard feed and water ad libitum. Upon confirmation of pregnancy, 5 mg/kg caffeine was added to the feed of the treatment group and administered until delivery. At three months post-delivery, blood samples were collected from the external jugular vein without sacrificing the animals for analysis of serum lipid profiles, hormone levels, and antioxidant activities. Results: The mean weight change was slightly higher in the caffeine-exposed group (20.50 ± 0.4) compared to the control, unexposed group (17.50 ± 0.8), although the observed difference was not statistically significant. The treatment group showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p<0.05) compared to the control. Total cholesterol (TC) levels were also higher in the treatment group. While serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were significantly reduced (p<0.05), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels remained unchanged. Conclusion/Recommendations: Prenatal caffeine exposure induces oxidative stress and disrupts reproductive hormonal profiles in F1 generation male piglets. Further studies are warranted to determine the persistence of these effects in subsequent generations (F2 and F3).
 
Establishing the Relationship between Islamic Finance and Political Stability of Nigeria
This study examines the dynamic relationship between Islamic finance and political stability in Nigeria, analysing how one influences the other. Using a mixed-method approach, the research demonstrates that Islamic finance contributes positively to political stability by fostering financial inclusion, reducing poverty, and driving economic growth. However, persistent political instability and weak governance structures significantly hinder the advancement of Islamic finance in Nigeria. The study also highlights the critical role of political factors, such as government support, robust regulatory frameworks, and strict adherence to Shari’ah principles in the sustainable growth of Islamic finance. Findings show that Islamic finance rooted in principles of social justice, equality, and fairness, has the potential to serve as a catalyst for political stability. To realize these benefits, the paper recommends that Nigerian policy makers and regulators prioritize the development of Islamic financial services. It also recommends the Strengthening of governance and the integration of Islamic financial products into the broader economy to enhance financial inclusion, alleviate poverty, and secure both economic and political stability
Law and Society: Exploring the intersection of Legal History and Social Change
The intersection of legal history and social change is a rich and complex area of study that examines how legal systems have evolved in response to changing societal norms, values, and demands. Legal history delves into the development of laws and legal institutions over time, tracing their origins, evolution, and impact on society. This study delves into the intricate relationship between legal history and social change, elucidating how legal systems have both reflected and influenced the evolution of societies over time. Moreover, this research emphasizes the importance of critically engaging with legal history to understand the entrenched inequalities, biases, and exclusions that have persisted through legal mechanisms. Through historical sources and drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from history, sociology, and law, this study ventures into the underlying mechanisms through which legal norms, institutions, and judgments have shaped cultural norms, power structures, and collective identities. By examining key historical moments where legal frameworks have either adapted to or spurred social transformations, this research seeks to uncover the dynamic interplay between law and the broader societal fabric. Ultimately, this article advocates for a nuanced approach to studying the intersection of legal history and social change, one that recognizes the dual role of law as a mirror and a catalyst for societal transformation
Ìṣẹ̀lẹ̀ Ajẹmọ́-Àwùjọ Òde-Òní nínú Ewì JF Ọdúnjọ
Àṣamọ̀
Ohun tí iṣẹ́ yìí dá lé ni Ìṣẹ̀lẹ̀ Ajẹmọ́-Àwùjọ Òde-Òní nínú Ewì Joseph Fọláhàn Ọdúnjọ . Àwọn onímọ̀ tí wọ́n ti ṣe iṣẹ́ lórí ìṣẹ̀lẹ̀ àwùjọ nínú ewì kò tíì ṣe àyẹ̀wò ìjẹyọ rẹ̀ nínú ewì Joseph Fọláhàn Ọdúnjọ. Nínú ewì Ọdúnjọ, a wò ó bí ó ṣé ń ewì rẹ̀ lé oríṣìíríṣìí ìṣẹ̀lẹ̀ àwùjọ. Ọgbọ́n ìwádìí tí a lò fún iṣẹ́ ìwádìí yìí ni ìlànà ìfọ̀rọ̀-wáni-lẹ́nu-wò tí a ṣe pẹ̀lú awọn onímọ̀ tí wọ́n ti ṣe iṣẹ́ lórí iṣẹ́-ọnà Ọdúnjọ rí. Yàtọ̀ sí èyí, a tún ka onírúurú ìwé tí ó ti kọ bí i Aláwìíyé apá kìn-ín-ní títí kẹfà pàápàá jù lọ ìwé ewì rẹ̀ Àkójọpọ̀ Ewì Aládùn. Ìwádìí yìí fi ìdí rẹ̀ múlẹ̀ pé, bí àwọn akéwì-akọ̀wé bá túnbọ̀ gbájúmọ́ ìṣẹ̀lẹ̀ àwùjọ nínú iṣẹ́-ọnà pàápàá jù lọ nínú ewì, àwùjọ yóò ní ìdàgbàsókè tí ó péye ní gbogbo abala tí àwùjọ pín sí.
Kókó-Ọ̀rọ̀: Lítíréṣọ̀, Ewì, Joseph Fọláhàn Ọdúnjọ, Àwùjọ, Yorùbá
The Prospects of Islamic Endowment (WAQF) System in Actualising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria
As a third sector,Waqf institution in the Islamic social finance system possesses great potentials in institutionalizing and sustaining charitable works to the betterment of the people and reduction of poverty. Alternative solutions are being sought and applied in health care delivery, energy, etc. Alternative finance ought to be also explored to proffer solutions to the myriad of economic challenges facing Nigeria and many developing countries in Africa. Waqf stands out among the social finance tools that should be harnessed urgently given its potentials. This paper highlighted the achievements of Waqf system in various ancient societies and the present. It also established however that Waqf is menaced with challenges principally lack of awareness of its potentials by individuals and governments, and paucity of robust legal and institutional frameworks for the effective administration and management of the same. Solutions are also proffered. The methodology used in this work is doctrinal.
Keywords: Waqf, Finance, trust, Endowment, Zakᾱt