Law of Homicide in Nigeria
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Date
1985
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Publisher
Obafemi Awolowo University
Abstract
The thesis analyses the ramifications of the laws relating to homicide under the Criminal and Penal Codes, and other relevant enactments in Nigeria. Owing to the origin of those Codes, particularly in their relationship with the English Common Law,comparative approach has been adopted in the study.
Traditionally, the principles of criminal liability have, the main, evolved through cases of homicide. Inescapably, therefore, the thesis reflects on those germane principles, ably actus reus and mens rea which constitute the foundation criminal law, as they relate to the law of homicide. In addition, thesis demonstrates the scope of the basic general defences the particular reference and application to decisions arising from offences of homicide.
An interesting aspect of the developments in the law of homicide is the recognition of the various categories of mens rea the determination of the degree of culpability in cases of icicle. This was so under the older systems of law and the position, is not radically different where objective views of heinousness or award of punishment are concerned. The culmination of the aforegoing, in present times, is to be able to distinguish the accompanying states of mind for the various types of offences of homicide or to see what excuses can exculpate or reduce culpability for a charge of unlawful homicide. The trend that runs throughout the discussion is the attempt to balance the interest of the society in protecting itself from dangerous acts, especially the sanctity of human life? on the one hand, with the need to reasonably protect the accused by fair and human rules of criminal trials and liability on the other hand.
Description
608p
Keywords
Law Homicide Criminal Penal code
Citation
Owoade, M.A Law of Homicide in Nigeria