Cultural-Religious Traditions and Practices and the Law Governing Cadaveric Organ Donations in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper discusses the legal framework for cadaveric organ donations in Nigeria.  It is predominantly concerned with the co-existence of the law with centuries-old customary practices and traditions on corpse mystification and ancestral worship, under which cadaveric organ donations are an unfathomable taboo.  It is noted that prevalent customary-religious traditions and practices are not conducive to cadaveric donations.  At the same time, the legal framework reflected in the National Health Act of 2014 must be embraced and operationalized.  It offers a historic opportunity for further gains in the near future.