THE TORTUOUS LIABILITIES ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION: A CASE OF WATER POLLUTION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper examines the tortuous liabilities on environmental pollution in Nigeria with particular focus on water pollution. It also discusses the services, functions and values of water, the various meanings of pollution, the causes of water pollution and the effects of such pollution on both the flora and the fauna alike. It further described and examined the tortuous liabilities under the common law viz – Negligence, Nuisance and the doctrine of Res IpsaLoquitor as well as the rule in Ryland V. Fletcher. More importantly, it also examined the various legal frameworks on water pollution. Given these legislations, it is suggested inter alia that, the lawmakers must not shy away from legislating on appropriate legislation to avert water pollution, there should be adequate monitoring of the human activities, sensitization of the populace on the need to preserve clean water, adequate compensation to the affected victims of water pollution as well adequate enforcement of the articulated policy on preservation of clean water environment.