A Review of Some Discriminatory Laws against Women and the Need for Legislative-Gender Responsive Actions in Nigeria

Abstract

This brief provides insight into some of the discriminatory laws against women in Nigeria, and suggests steps that may be taken to address them. Some of the existing laws that discriminate against women are the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Evidence Act, the Criminal Code, the Penal Code, the Police Act, the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act, and the Labour Act. It is instructive to note that gender inequality in law and practice, among others, can all contribute to underdevelopment of the country. Hence it is imperative to eliminate discriminatory laws against women so as to ensure the development of the country. The brief recommends, among other things, that: • The National Assembly may review the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to make it gender neutral in its wordings by reflecting “He/She, as opposed to only “He”. • the Evidence Act, the Criminal Code, the Penal Code, the Police Act, the NDLEA Act, and the Labour Act may be reviewed to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women.