Know your Rights under the Nigerian Constitution and their meaning

• Right to Life – S. 33
No one has the right to take your life except in execution of a court sentence or as allowed by law.

•Right to Dignity of Human Person – S. 34
You must not be tortured, enslaved, or treated like an animal. No inhuman or degrading treatment.

•Right to Personal Liberty – S. 35
You cannot be arrested or detained unlawfully. If you are detained, you must be charged to court within a reasonable time.

•Right to Fair Hearing – S. 36
You must be heard before judgment is given against you. No secret trial. Both sides must be given equal opportunity.

•Right to Private and Family Life – S. 37
Your privacy, home, phone calls, and correspondence are protected. No unlawful intrusion.

•Right to Freedom of Thought, Conscience & Religion – S. 38
You are free to believe, worship, and practice any religion of your choice.

•Right to Freedom of Expression & the Press – S. 39
You can speak, write, and share opinions. But remember — freedom of speech is not freedom to defame.

• Right to Peaceful Assembly & Association –
S. 40
You have the right to gather, form unions, or join political parties, as long as it is peaceful.

•Right to Freedom of Movement – S. 41
You can move freely anywhere in Nigeria. No one should restrict your movement unlawfully.

• Right to Freedom from Discrimination – S. 42
You must not be treated unfairly because of your sex, religion, tribe, or political opinion.

• Right to Acquire and Own Property – S. 43
You can buy, own, and dispose of property anywhere in Nigeria.

•Right Against Compulsory Acquisition – S. 44
Your property cannot be taken by government except for public purpose and with compensation.

These rights are enforceable in court under S. 46 of the Constitution. If your right is breached, you can sue and the court can order redress.

Stop shouting “I know my rights!” without actually knowing them. Learn them, use them, and have your lawyer defend them when necessary. Your rights are your power under the law.