Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, has stirred controversy with his assertion that Nigeria operates two major criminal laws: the Criminal Code for the South and the Penal Code for the North.
In a statement shared via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Adejobi emphasized the need for Nigerians to familiarize themselves with these laws, stating:
“Know the law: Nigeria operates 2 major criminal laws, the Criminal Code for the South, and the Penal Code for the North. There are other acts, the ones we refer to as miscellaneous acts. These laws (law books) are not restricted documents. Let’s get them, read, and be familiar with our laws as Nigeria is not a lawless country. Enjoy your weekend.”
Adejobi’s remarks have sparked debate among legal experts and the general public, with many questioning the implications of his statement. Critics argue that while Nigeria has distinct legal systems for different regions, his framing oversimplifies the complexities of the nation’s legal structure.
One of the strongest rebuttals came from human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who lambasted Adejobi’s understanding of the law. In a scathing response, Effiong described Adejobi’s legal knowledge as “ignorance raised to power 1000.” He accused the police spokesperson of making misleading claims about Nigeria’s legal framework, asserting that Adejobi often speaks on legal matters outside his expertise.
Effiong’s full critique, which dissects Adejobi’s legal assertions in detail, can be accessed here.
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Legal analysts argue that while the Criminal Code and Penal Code are indeed the primary criminal laws in Nigeria’s legal system, their application is more nuanced. The Criminal Code, derived from English common law, is primarily used in the southern states, whereas the Penal Code, influenced by Islamic law, governs the northern states. However, federal laws and various Acts of the National Assembly also play a significant role in shaping the country’s legal landscape.
Adejobi’s statement has reignited discussions about the disparity in Nigeria’s legal system and whether reforms are needed to harmonize the laws across the country. As the debate continues, legal professionals and policymakers may seek to clarify these legal distinctions to ensure accurate public understanding of Nigeria’s judicial framework.
