THE NATURE AND SCOPE OF DEFAMATION UNDER NIGERIAN LAW

AKPUDO, CHARLES CHIBUIKE (2026) THE NATURE AND SCOPE OF DEFAMATION UNDER NIGERIAN LAW. Other thesis, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu.

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Abstract

This research project examines the nature and scope of defamation under Nigerian law, with particular focus on defamation as a tort, its essential elements, available remedies and defences, and the legal tension between the protection of reputation and the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression. The study adopts a doctrinal research methodology by relying on primary legal materials such as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), statutory provisions, and judicial authorities, as well as secondary materials including textbooks, journal articles and other scholarly commentaries. The study finds that Nigerian defamation law is largely rooted in received English common law principles, especially the distinction between libel and slander, but that these traditional classifications now face practical difficulty in the context of modern communication, mass media, social media and online publication. It further finds that although the law recognises important defences such as justification, fair comment, privilege, innocent dissemination, apology and retraction, the present legal framework does not always provide a clear and consistent method for balancing reputational protection with freedom of expression. The research recommends legislative reform, clearer judicial standards, improved public awareness, responsible media practice and more effective regulation of digital platforms to ensure that defamation law remains relevant, fair and capable of addressing contemporary reputational harm in Nigeria.

Item Type: Thesis (Other)
Subjects: K Law > K Law (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Law
Depositing User: COMFORT AJALA
Date Deposited: 24 Jul 2026 14:14
Last Modified: 24 Jul 2026 14:14
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/6001

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