Strange Nigerian laws

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Nigeria is a country where there has been series of reviews of the laws because of perceived vacuums and laws not being in tandem with democratic system. And while there are constant arguments on the effectiveness of the law, it is a fact that some laws while they remain in existence are not only obsolete but strange.

And as strange or unrealistic some laws look, they are still laws and can’t be overlooked because ignorance of the law is not an acceptable excuse in Nigeria.

Below are some strange Nigerian laws that you may not have heard about but may lead to prosecution:

The Witchcraft Law: According to Section 210 of the Criminal Code Act, it is illegal for a person to represent himself/herself to be a witch or to have the power of witchcraft, flouting this law can lead to two years imprisonment.

The ‘Camo’ Law: It is illegal to drive or own a car painted ‘army green under the Prohibition of Use Act, defying this law comes with consequences; aside the common disfigurement of faces or cars by the military, offenders could either be imprisoned for a maximum of six months, made to pay a fine, or both.

Also, based on the provisions of Section 110 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act, it is illegal for civilians to wear the uniform of the armed forces.

The ‘Koboko’ law: The Criminal Code Law, provides that a young male less that 17 years found guilty of a crime can be caned/flogged in addition or in place of the punishment for which he is liable.

Reward for Stolen Property Law: Section 129 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act says it is illegal to publicly advertise a reward for the return of stolen or lost property. The person is guilty of simple offence and is liable to pay a fine.

Respect for the flag: The Flags and Coats Of Arms Act, Cap. F30, LFN, 2004 provides that national symbols especially the flag should be respected; it is not to be displayed in faded, defaced or bad condition and anyone who does contrary to this is guilty of an offense.

Promise-and-Fail Marriage Law: The Nigerian constitution says you can sue for breach of promise to marry.

Treatment of animals on transit law: Sections 7 and 8(b) & (c) of the Animal Diseases (Control) Act, LFN, 2004 provides that where trade animals are transported for a period exceeding 12 hours, the person in charge shall be required to stop to feed, water and rest such animals every 12 hours; with animals of different sexes or age group separated.

Inscription on baby formulas: The Marketing (Breastmilk Substitutes) Act, Cap. M5, LFN, 2004, Section 3 provides a breast-milk substitute or baby formula container shall bear a label, stating the following statement in English and at least three other Nigerian languages – “Breast-milk is the best food for the child as it prevents diarrhoea, chest pain and other diseases.” Penalty include fine, imprisonment or both.

Deceit through adverts: Section 11 of the Consumer Protection Council Act, Cap. C25, LFN, 2004 states that any person who issues or aids in issuing any wrong advertisement about a consumer item, is guilty of an offence and liable to a fine, imprisonment for five years or both.

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