Section 272 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria

Section 272 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 is about Jurisdiction: general. It is under A (High Court of a State) of Part II (State courts) of Chapter VII (The Judicature) of the Constitution.

(1) Subject to the provisions of section 251 and other provisions of this Constitution, the High Court of a State shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine any civil proceedings in which the existence or extent of a legal right, power, duty, liability, privilege, interest, obligation or claim is in issue or to hear and determine any criminal proceedings involving or relating to any penalty, forfeiture, punishment or other liability in respect of an offence committed by any person.

(2) The reference to civil or criminal proceedings in this section includes a reference to the proceedings which originate in the High Court of a State and those which are brought before the High Court
to be dealt with by the Court in the exercise of its appellate or supervisory jurisdiction.

(3) Subject to the provisions of section 251 and other provisions of this Constitution, the Federal High Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine the question as to whether the term of office of a member of the House of Assembly of a State, a Governor or Deputy Governor has ceased or become vacant.

Credit: Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC)