FG Moves to Expunge Outdated, Contradictory Laws

Alex Enumah in Abuja 

The Federal Government on Thursday set up a committee for the review, update and consolidation of the laws of the federation.

The move, which forms part of ongoing efforts of the President Bola Tinubu administration at promoting the rule of law and access to justice, is coming 20 years after the last review.

The 46-member committee, which is chaired by Mr Olawale Fapohunda (SAN), has a six-month timeline to deliver on its mandate.

Inaugurating the committee, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said that the purpose of the review, update and consolidation is to enable clarity, predictability, consistency and uniformity in the country’s body of laws. 

The AGF, who stated that the general purpose of law is to protect public interest, regulate human behaviour and interactions between corporate entities, observed that “the law is constantly dynamic and evolving, hence, there is need for continuous review or reform of our body of laws (corpus juris) to address contemporary socio-economic developments, resolve conflicting and obsolete provisions with the ultimate aim of improving the administration of justice and promotion of rule of law”.

Fagbemi pointed out that the review, update and consolidation of the Laws of the Federation, 2004 is long overdue in order to reflect and consolidate legislative developments (inclusive of repeals, amendments and enactments) from 2004 till date, in furtherance of the law development mandate of the Federal Ministry of Justice. 

“The expected key areas of focus for the committee in the instant exercise are identification of outdated laws which are not in line with contemporary needs and values, as well as harmonization of conflicting laws, to ensure uniformity and consistency. This is with a view to attracting socio-economic growth and investment, promoting efficiency and adapting to technological advancements,” he said.

While stating that members of the committee consist of individuals with vast professional experience and technical expertise in various aspects of the justice sector, the minister enjoined them to make best efforts to deliver within the stated timeline.

He also assured Nigerians that the ministry will always be available to provide institutional support and assistance where required, in order to ensure that the committee achieves its mandate.