AN ANALYSIS OF PIRACY PROVISIONS UNDER NIGERIA’S SUPPRESSION OF PIRACY ACT 2019

Abstract

Nations in the Gulf of Guinea have recognized the need for regional cooperation in order to effectively combat maritime piracy. However, a foundation of a strong legal framework is required to adequately combat piracy. The Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation to which Nigeria domesticated in 2019 was a watershed enactment as it finally brought clarification on whether the offence of sea piracy had domestic legislative provision in Nigeria. This paper explores key provisions on piracy under SPOMO Act and dovetail how the law has addressed maritime piracy incidents. It found that the current regime has brought about a decline in the activities of pirates through regional collaboration. It also found that partial enforcement of legislative provisions by courts will remain a clog to eradicating piracy incidents in Nigeria. The paper adopted the doctrinal method of legal research, it benefitted from works of legal experts.