RE-EXAMINING CITIZENSHIP: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF FOLAKEMI ADEOSUN VS. ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION

Abstract

This case review critically examines the landmark judgment of Folakemi Adeosun vs. Attorney General of the Federation, which sparked intense debate on Nigerian citizenship law. The case centered on Mrs. Folakemi Adeosun's citizenship status, specifically whether she held Nigerian citizenship as of 1989. While the court's decision that Mrs. Adeosun was not a Nigerian citizen in 1989 is well-founded, her automatic re-acquisition of citizenship under the 1999 Constitution is contestable. This analysis underscores the need for clarity on citizenship principles in Nigeria, highlighting complexities surrounding citizenship acquisition and forfeiture. It argues that Mrs. Adeosun, having forfeited her Nigerian citizenship, cannot regain it without undergoing a formal process, contrary to Justice Taiwo's conclusion. The review calls for future legal developments to address critical concerns, providing clarity on citizenship principles and reacquisition processes.