Nigeria Dangerous Drugs Act: A Great Positive Disability – Jurisprudential Dictates of Indian Hemp

Abstract

Once a nation becomes independent, it takes responsibility for its affairs. From this point, it looks at its past, present and future. Nigeria became independent in 1960. Apart from its Criminal Law Code as old as age, Nigerian Dangerous Drugs Act was enacted in 1935. One of the drugs criminalized is Indian Hemp. This drug has many advantages. The mischief of the Act is political and not in the interest of the nation. World Health Organization research report shows the extent to which Indian Hemp is harmful in comparison with other drugs or products which are of immense economic value to developed world. By all intents and purposes, the harm of Indian Hemp is not comparable to those in the same family not criminalized even though it is more valuable. In spite of its sacramental and economic value it is criminalized notwithstanding non-discriminatory nature of Nigerian Constitution and its secular posture. Judicial decisions have indicated that the drug/substance should flow with the members of its family. The world, through CNN programme in August, 2013 shows that most families need the weed for the cure of epilepsy among other benefits.

Keywords: Jurisprudence, Nigeria Dangerous Drugs Act, Indian Hemp