CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN FAMILY LAW IN NIGERIA: THE DEBATE ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE

Abstract

According to a classic definition, family law refers to ‘…the body of legal principles governing the relationships of husband and wife and parent and Child…’1Globally however, there have been some changes to this definition. The concept of the family has been redefined in some jurisdictions to accommodate certain emerging contemporary trends. In Nigeria, contemporary issues have also emerged to alter the scope of family law. This research attempted to highlight contemporary changes in family law globally with particular emphasis to the new concept of same sex marriages. How have this impacted on Nigerian family law? Is there need for reforms within the Nigerian legal system to accommodate this new concept? Are all areas of universal reforms relevant/irrelevant within the Nigerian context? The writer concluded that Nigeria must not get carried away by global trends, but must instead focus on reforms only in so far as they are relevant to its environment, beliefs and culture.