EXPANDING THE SCOPE OF AMICUS CURIAE BRIEFS IN NIGERIA- A PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Amicus typically relates to the phrase amicus curiae which means ‘friend of the court’. Amicus is an
individual or organization that is not a party to an action but who volunteers or is court invited to advise
on a matter before the court. The essence of this work is to ascertain the application and scope of Amicus
Curiae Brief in Nigeria- the finding of this work is that Amicus curiae brief applies in Nigeria but relates
to constitutional issue and mostly presented to the court by lawyers and organizations that are connected
to law related concerns. It is also the findings of this work that science-based research especially
psychological related research are not presented to the courts in Nigeria because the scope of Amicus
curiae is limited and not taken as a subject of legal importance. The work recommends for the
incorporation of Amicus Curiae Briefs in our State High Courts and review of all the Federal High
Courts, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court Rules on Amicus Curiae Brief, expands its scope,
accessibility and cost effectiveness. It is also recommended that legislation should be made in our laws
especially the law of evidence on Amicus Curia Brief and for an advanced advocacy in partnership with
Professional Associations and Agencies of State in high profile related research and technological
knowledge and advancement. If these recommendations are implemented, the amicus curiae brief system
would certainly help the cause of justice.