What is Libel ?
What is Slander ?
S 39 of the 1999 Constitution, Federal Republic of Nigeria provides inter alia that “every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information without interference …”.
In Nigeria, the freedom of expression is protected by section 39 (1) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria constitution. Despite this constitutional protection, the Nigerian media was controlled by the government throughout much of its history, with some even to this day.
Thus section 36 (1) of the Constitution of Nigeria isformulated to give Freedom of Expression subject only to the laws of the country as to libel, slander, injurious falsehood etc. Even where such situation arises, it would be a matter for a court of law to determine and not the legislature.
Time, place, and manner. Limitations based on time, place, and manner apply to all speech, regardless of the view expressed. They are generally restrictions that are intended to balance other rights or a legitimate government interest.