Project Abstract

Abstract
The defence of provocation in the context of the offence of murder has been a subject of significant debate and scrutiny in Nigerian criminal law. This research project aims to critically appraise the application of the defence of provocation within the Nigerian legal system, particularly in cases of murder. The concept of provocation as a defence to murder involves an argument that the accused was provoked to commit the act in a state of temporary loss of self-control. This defence seeks to mitigate the accused's culpability by suggesting that the provocation caused them to act in a way that they would not have done in normal circumstances. The Nigerian legal framework recognizes provocation as a partial defence to murder under certain circumstances. However, there have been concerns regarding the application and interpretation of this defence in practice. Issues such as the subjective nature of what constitutes provocation, the standard of reasonableness in the accused's reaction, and the gendered aspects of provocation have all been topics of discussion and critique. This research project will delve into the historical development of the defence of provocation in Nigerian criminal law, examining relevant statutes, case law, and scholarly opinions. By analyzing key cases where the defence of provocation has been raised, this study aims to assess the consistency and effectiveness of the application of this defence in murder trials. Furthermore, the research will explore the intersectionality of provocation with other defences such as self-defence and diminished responsibility, considering how these defences may interact and influence the outcomes of murder trials. The project will also examine the societal and cultural factors that may impact the perception and acceptance of provocation as a defence in Nigerian criminal law. Through a comprehensive review of legal sources, case studies, and comparative analyses with other jurisdictions, this research project seeks to provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the defence of provocation in Nigerian criminal law. Ultimately, the findings of this study aim to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the reform of criminal defences in Nigeria, with a focus on enhancing justice, fairness, and consistency in murder trials.

Project Overview

Provocation on its own it not a total defense as to make the accused discharged of his guilt. It reduces murder to manslaughter. This essay considers the adequacy of this defense by examining it under the penal laws of Nigeria and different centers. The general requirement is that of the deceased must have been caused by accused upon provocation induced by the deceased himself and this must be offered before the accused had time for his passion to cool down. The injury inflicted must also be proportional and must be one as would have caused a reasonable man to resort to the same consequence. The adequate of this defense, in the light of the scope of this study is purely a psychological question. The test of provocation is inadequate. It is plainly illogical not to recognize the fact that different people react differently to stimuli and the law, by its hording expects a man dethroned in his reasoning faculty to inflict a reasonably proportional injury which only a reasonable man in his senses could do. The aim and objective of this work was to assess the meaning of the term provocation as provided for under the penal and criminal codes and other relevant statutes, case law and by various author, its nature, element and the condition under which the defense can avail a person from criminal liability.