ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ENTITIES, CRIMINAL RESPONSIBILITY AND NIGERIAN LEGAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

Abstract

Following a surge in cybernetics and robotics in contemporary times, there emerges a cluster of research interests focusing on the criminal liability or otherwise of an artificial intelligence entity in the event causing criminal harm on its target. It could be an entity not created to cause harm, but which could nevertheless do so by accident or error. In Nigeria, some people may choose to regard this subject as too far remote into the future to concern us, yet one has to be reminded that the world is now a global village in which technology speedily gets transferred to the various ends. As automation machinery bypasses direct human control and becomes more advanced and widespread, questions of risks, fault, responsibility and punishment have become more pertinent. This study examined the challenges that affect imposition of criminal liabilities on artificial intelligence entities and discussed the application of Nigerian domestic laws in determining the extent of criminal responsibility that could be imputed, and on whom. It is recommended that a new legal framework be enacted specifically for artificial intelligence entities as the extant legal regime may not be immediately and directly suitable. It is hoped that this measure will address the liability conundrum that are currently in issue.