JIL100: Introduction to Law
JIL 100, Introduction to Law, intends to acquaint the students with the tradition of law in Nigeria, a multi cultural society and the suitability of a federal constitution for Nigeria. It also intends to make them familiar with nature, scope, and significance of law. In addition, it endeavors to make them aware of the development of law and legal institutions of the country in general.
It focuses on the Nigerian legal system and Judicial Precedent. The course strives to instill in students basic knowledge and understanding of criminal law, law of torts, contract and principal and agent relationship.
Law does not operate in a vacuum. It has to reflect social values, attitudes and behaviour. Societal values and norms, directly or indirectly, influence law. Law also endeavors to mould and control these values, attitudes and behavioural patterns so that they flow in a proper channel. It attempts either to support the social system or to change the prevalent social situation or relationship by its formal processes. Law also influences other parts of the social system. Law, therefore, can be perceived as symbolizing the public affirmation of social facts and norms as well as means of social control and an instrument of social change.