THE LAW AND ECO-JUSTICE IN NIGERIA: AN ANALYSIS

Abstract

Eco-justice, which integrates environmental justice with social justice, is increasingly relevant in Nigeria given the country’s dependence on natural resources, persistent environmental degradation and the disproportionate impact of ecological harm on vulnerable communities, particularly in the Niger Delta region and other littoral states. The study examines the concept of eco-justice within the framework of Nigerian law, detailing the extent to which existing legal, constitutional, statutory and judicial mechanisms promote environmental protection, ecological sustainability and equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens. Using doctrinal and analytical methodologies, the study analyses extant constitutional provisions, environmental statutes, international environmental instruments and judicial decisions to assess Nigeria’s commitment to eco-justice. The study finds that although Nigeria possesses an elaborate body of environmental laws and policies, enforcement deficits, weak institutional capacity, corruption and the nonjusticiability of environmental rights under the constitution significantly undermine eco-justice. It recommends constitutional reform, stronger enforcement mechanisms, enhanced access to justice, judicial activism and community participation as pathways towards achieving eco-justice in Nigeria.