A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF THE LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF EUTHANASIA IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS FOR REFORM

Abstract

Euthanasia has been debated both from both the legal viewpoint and the moral standpoint. The morality aspect of it has been drawn from the teachings of the holy books while the legal aspect has been seen from the provision of our laws. The right to life is a fundamental right which is inalienable and an infringement on it will be remedied by the law. However, the government’s has interest in what becomes one’s life as one of the government responsibilities is to ensure security of life and property. Thus, the question has shifted from “what can I do with my life?” to “what can I not do with my life?” This paper discusses the legal and ethical debates concerning both types of euthanasia. It focuses on both the supporter of euthanasia and the opponent of euthanasia. The methodology adopted in the course of this research is the doctrinal methodology. This study found out that euthanasia otherwise known as assisted murder is legal in some countries and performed on health ground with or without the consent of the victim. This research shows that active euthanasia is illegal under the Nigerian legal framework. Life is considered sacred. Nobody is allowed to terminate life except through the due process of law. Passive euthanasia is also illegal in Nigeria because is a practice that has the same consequences as active euthanasia