ETHICO-LEGAL FOUNDATIONS FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS IN THE NIGERIAN ELECTRICITY INDUSTRY

Abstract

This study made a holistic consideration of the ethical ideologies on environmental standards. It also made a critical analysis of the statutory provisions for handling environmental concerns in the Nigerian electricity industry. The methodology adopted is doctrinal using descriptive and analytical examination of primary sources such as statutes, regulations, case law, and secondary sources like journal articles, textbooks and internet materials on the subject. The Nigerian Constitution makes provision for the preservation of the environment from the adverse effects of activities in the Nigerian electricity industry and provides the imprimatur for the enactment of other laws on the same subject. These legal provisions are informed by the ecocentric perception that preservation of the environment as a whole is key to sustainable development of the society. Though loopholes exist in these laws, procuring an amendment of the Constitution so as to make its provisions on environmental protection justiciable among other statutory amendments will help Nigeria develop an eco-friendly electricity industry.