An Evaluation of Constitutional Law in Addressing Illegal Forest Exploitation: A Study of Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State
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Background of the Study
Illegal forest exploitation is a major environmental and economic issue, contributing to deforestation, biodiversity loss, climate change, and soil degradation. Forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, water regulation, and biodiversity conservation, making their protection vital for sustainable development (Okonkwo & Mustapha, 2023). Constitutional law establishes the legal framework for forest governance, ensuring that natural resources are managed sustainably (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2024). Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) mandates environmental protection, while the National Forestry Act and state laws regulate forest conservation, logging, and afforestation programs. However, despite these laws, illegal logging and unsanctioned deforestation continue to threaten Nigeria’s forest resources (Bello & Usman, 2024).
In Gombe Local Government Area, illegal forest exploitation is driven by poverty, weak enforcement of forestry laws, and rising demand for timber and firewood (Yakubu & Ibrahim, 2024). Unsustainable logging has led to desertification, declining agricultural productivity, and loss of natural habitats, affecting both livelihoods and ecological balance (Mustapha & Aliyu, 2023). The failure of constitutional and legal mechanisms to effectively curb illegal deforestation raises concerns about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s legal framework in forest conservation. This study evaluates the role of constitutional law in addressing illegal forest exploitation, identifying gaps in policy enforcement and potential reforms.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Illegal forest exploitation remains a persistent challenge despite Nigeria’s constitutional and legal provisions for environmental protection (Bello & Usman, 2024). In Gombe LGA, the depletion of forests has contributed to land degradation, water scarcity, and climate-related disasters (Olawale & Ibrahim, 2024). The inefficiency of law enforcement agencies, corruption, and lack of community engagement have worsened the problem, leading to continued deforestation and environmental harm (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2024). This study investigates the effectiveness of constitutional law in addressing illegal forest exploitation, exploring policy gaps and legal enforcement challenges in Gombe LGA.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
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To examine the role of constitutional law in combating illegal forest exploitation in Gombe LGA.
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To identify the challenges affecting law enforcement in forest conservation.
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To propose legal and policy reforms to strengthen forest protection measures.
1.4 Research Questions
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How does constitutional law influence forest conservation in Gombe LGA?
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What are the key barriers to enforcing forest protection laws?
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What legal reforms can improve forest sustainability and conservation?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
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H₀: Constitutional law has no significant effect on illegal forest exploitation in Gombe LGA.
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H₁: Weak enforcement of forestry laws contributes to continued deforestation.
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H₂: Strengthening legal frameworks improves forest conservation efforts.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study benefits environmental policymakers, legal scholars, forestry agencies, and advocacy groups, providing insights into the effectiveness of Nigeria’s constitutional and legal mechanisms in protecting forests. The findings will contribute to policy discussions, legal reforms, and enforcement strategies to curb illegal deforestation.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State, focusing on constitutional law, forest policies, and enforcement mechanisms. Limitations may include inadequate access to forestry law enforcement data.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
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Illegal Forest Exploitation: The unauthorized harvesting of timber and destruction of forests.
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Deforestation: The large-scale removal of trees without reforestation efforts.
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Forest Conservation: Sustainable management and protection of forests to prevent degradation.
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