THE ROLE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF NIGERIA IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN RIGHTS JURISPRUDENCE UNDER THE 1999 CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

The clarion call for the protection of human rights is on the increase and this has led to the ratification of many international human rights instruments in Nigeria which are aimed at promoting human rights in Nigeria. The Supreme Court of Nigeria has played and is still playing a major role in the promotion, enforcement and enjoyment of the human rights of the citizens but more is still required of them to ensure optimal enjoyment of same. The duty of promotion, protection, enforcement and enjoyment of the human right of the citizens is vested on the Supreme Court but the pertinent question is; to what extent has the Supreme Court fared in that duty, how has the Supreme Court of Nigeria fared in its duty of promotion, enforcement and enjoyment of the human rights of the citizens as well as the development of its jurisprudence? This research looked at the role the Supreme Court has played in the enjoyment, promotion, protection and enforcement of human rights as well as in the development of its jurisprudence. The attitude of the Supreme Court in the interpretation of international human rights treaties is also analysed so also their attitude in the interpretation of the human rights provisions in' the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The research made use of doctrinal research method. The research found that the interest in human rights has greatly increased in Nigeria which has led to the adoption of many human rights instruments; despite which there is still neglect and tremendous human rights abuses. The Supreme Court empowered by the Constitution to protect and promote human rights has an enormous role to play in its protection, promotion and enforcement as well as the development of its jurisprudence. The Supreme Court though is making huge effort to ensure that the citizens ’ human rights is guaranteed should be more pro-active and bold in the interpretation of the human rights provisions in the Constitution.