CHALLENGES TO PROTECTION OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY IN NIGERIA
OBASI PRINCESS UGOEZE, Obasi Princess Ugoeze, LLB BL, Post Graduate Scholar, Imo State University, Owerri.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17470938 | Page 01 to 11
Abstract
Industrial property, as a branch of intellectual property law, plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation, promoting fair competition, and protecting the commercial interests of creators and investors. In Nigeria, the framework for industrial property protection is largely outdated, fragmented, and poorly enforced. Despite Nigeria’s accession to international treaties such as the TRIPS Agreement and the Paris Convention, challenges persist in legislation, administration, enforcement, and public awareness. This paper critically examines the challenges to industrial property protection in Nigeria, drawing comparisons with jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom and South Africa, and proffers recommendations for reform. The analysis demonstrates that unless Nigeria undertakes urgent legal and institutional reforms, the potential of industrial property to drive economic growth, industrialization, and innovation will remain largely unrealized.
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Applying Positive Behavioral Adjustment Measures for Adolescent Students at School: A study from Students’ Perspectives
Hong- Thu thi Nguyen, Legal English faculty, Hanoi Law university, Vietnam.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17470545 | Page 01 to 13
Abstract
This study investigates students’ perspectives on the application of positive behavioral adjustment measures and their influence on students’ behavior change. A mixed-methods design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, was employed to ensure comprehensive insights. The study involved the participation of 118 students from a high school in Vietnam. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, in-depth written responses, and semi-structured interviews, allowing both statistical analysis and thematic exploration.The findings reveal that students largely support the application of positive behavioral measures, perceiving them as effective in reducing misconduct and fostering more responsible behavior. Moreover, students reported that these strategies enhanced their motivation for learning, strengthened self-regulation, and encouraged positive interactions with peers and teachers. The results suggest that when consistently applied, such measures help address the challenges of adolescent rebellion in a supportive and developmentally appropriate manner. Based on the evidence, the study provides recommendations for students, families, schools, and society to collaboratively promote behavioral improvement and create an environment conducive to academic and personal growth.
Keywords: positive behavioral adjustment measures, adolescent rebellions, secondary school students.
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PRAGMATIC DIFFERENCES AND INTERSECTIONS BETWEEN JUSTICIABILITY AND COMPETENCE IN THE ADJUDICATORY PROCESS IN NIGERIA
Prof Obiaraeri, N. O., Faculty of Law, Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17435959 | Page 01 to 12
Abstract
Adjudication without jurisdiction is a nullity. Justiciability and competence otherwise called locus standi are two of the many factors that can rob the Court of its jurisdiction. Although these two concepts are different, they are often misunderstood to mean the same thing. Deploying the doctrinal research method, this paper considered statutory provisions and judicial decisions on the concepts of justiciability and competence and found that while justiciability relates to the adjudicatory power of the Court over the matter, competence relates to the capacity of the person maintaining the suit. To resolve this quagmire, it was recommended that when objection to jurisdiction is taken, Counsel must be clear on which leg the objection is standing in order to assist the trial Court determine whether objection is taken as to the justiciability or competence or locus standi of the party as this will enhance both the speed and transparency of adjudicatory process.
Keywords: competence, locus standi, justiciability, jurisdiction
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The Role of the State in Designing the Legal Environment for Digital Technology Enterprises in Vietnam
Nguyen Vinh Huy, Ph. D, Van Hien Univeristy, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17435872 | Page 01 to 13
Abstract
On June 14, 2025, the National Assembly passed the Digital Technology Industry Law 2025 (DTIL), the world’s first law dedicated specifically to the digital technology industry, which will take effect on January 1, 2026 (with some investment incentives effective earlier, from July 1, 2025). The law establishes a policy framework for artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, digital assets, experimental sandboxes, tax and land incentives, and human resource development. On June 26, 2025, the National Assembly further adopted the Personal Data Protection Law 2025 (PDPL), effective from January 1, 2026, elevating data protection standards from decree level to law, while introducing mechanisms for impact assessment, 72-hour incident notification, and cross-border data transfer regulations. These two laws redefine the State’s role shifting from “reactive regulation” to “proactive institutional design and risk-guided governance”, thereby enhancing institutional certainty for digital technology enterprises. This paper updates the context, identifies implementation challenges (overlapping regulations, lack of detailed guidance, and enterprises’ compliance capacity), and proposes a set of policy recommendations regarding inter-ministerial coordination, sandbox design, data AI digital asset standards, prioritization of “Make in Vietnam” public procurement, and sector-specific compliance roadmaps for the Personal Data Protection Law.
Keywords: Role of the State, legal environment, digital technology enterprises, institutional design.
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EXAMINATION OF THE APPROPRIATE STAGES FOR GRANT OF PREROGATIVE OF MERCY BY THE PRESIDENT IN NIGERIA
PROF. OBIARAERI, N. O., Faculty of Law, Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17421803 | Page 01 to 13
Abstract
Under the Nigerian Constitution, the scheme of prerogative of mercy is provided to allow the President to pardon convicts for federal offences. This constitutes an exception to the rule that the judgment of the Supreme Court is final. Many mistake it that this power can be exercised at his whim and at every stage of criminal proceedings for which reason the power has been subjected to various forms of abuses. Following this challenge, this paper critically examined constitutional provisions that authorise the President to grant pardon in addition to judicial decisions that arose therefrom. The paper established that prerogative of mercy by the President should be properly exercised in order not to defeat the constitutional presumption of innocence. The paper further established that pardon is extended or grantable only after conviction or when there is no pending appeal and never otherwise. To do the contrary will amount to naked usurpation of judicial powers. As the use of prerogative of mercy can be subject of abuse, it was recommended that this humungous power of the President must be exercised only after consultation with the Council of State in accordance with due process of the law.
Keywords: conviction, appeal, final, pardon, prerogative, President.
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"Posthumous Dignity and Legal Protection: The Necessity of Criminalizing Necrophilia in Bangladesh and India"
Rehnuma Chowdhury, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, University of Information Technology and Sciences, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17380062 | Page 01 to 10
Abstract
Necrophilia is a severe violation of human dignity, and at the same time, it is such a topic that has not been discussed enough in Bangladesh and India. Although the practice gets a unanimous condemnation by culture and religion, neither of the jurisdictions has made the act a criminal offense. The Penal Code (Section 297), of Bangladesh, punishes indignity to corpses and trespass in burial grounds but not sexual abuse of dead bodies. In India, the Indian Penal Code and its replacement the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita include the same loopholes and Indian courts have made it clear that only alive people can be victims of rape and unnatural offences. Such a failure of imperfect information undermines deterrence obstacles to prosecution and comports a misconceived notion of posthumous dignity that emerges in the human rights law. With the help of comparative legal approach and cultural perspective, this article thus advocates the explicit criminalization of necrophilia where at least there should be clear-cut statutory definitions, appropriate proportional punishments, and enforcement procedures to protect the sanctity of the dead and align policies of any nation with that of the emerging investigations of justice and human rights in the world.
Keywords: Necrophilia, Posthumous dignity, Criminal law reform, Human rights, Legal protection.
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Deconstructing WhatsApp Emojis and Emotions through Semiotic Principles’ Prisms
Greatandy Victor Iguoba, Department of Mass Communication, Edo State University, Iyamho, Edo State, Nigeria.
Obinna Johnkennedy Chukwu, Ph.D, BL, Department of Mass Communication, Edo State University, Iyamho, Edo State, Nigeria.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17365354 | Page 01 to 28
Abstract
Emojis have become an integral part of everyday digital communication, yet their deeper semiotic and emotional complexities remain underexplored. This study investigates how WhatsApp emojis function as semiotic signs, conveying and shaping emotional meaning in digital interactions. Drawing on Saussurean structural semiotics and Peircean triadic semiotics, the research examines how users encode, interpret, and negotiate emotions through emojis, considering cultural, generational, and relational contexts. A qualitative exploratory design was employed, combining digital ethnography and semiotic analysis of anonymised WhatsApp chat histories from twenty purposively selected participants aged 18–35, supplemented by semi-structured interviews. This study analysed 20 chat histories, and focused on the denotative and connotative meanings of emojis and their interaction with textual messages to convey humour, affection, frustration, and relational nuance. Findings reveal that emojis operate as multimodal communicative tools whose meanings are context-dependent, culturally mediated, and relationally nuanced. They enhance emotional expression, complement or substitute verbal text, and function as complex signs characterised by arbitrariness, iconicity, indexicality, and social convention. The study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive semiotic understanding of WhatsApp emoji use among Nigerian users, grounded in authentic chat interactions, highlighting the role of visual-emotional literacy in contemporary digital communication. Practical implications include the need for emoji literacy in communication training, culturally sensitive platform design, and user awareness of context to avoid miscommunication.
Keywords: Digital communication, emojis, emotion, meaning-making, semiotics, WhatsApp
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The Impact of Digital Marketing Strategies on Consumer Purchasing Behavior: A Mixed-Methods Approach
Nguyen Lan Anh, Faculty of Business Administration, Ho Chi Minh city University of Industry, Vietnam.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17347323 | Page 01 to 11
Abstract
Digital marketing has revolutionized consumer behavior, influencing purchasing decisions through social media, content marketing, and online advertising. This study examines how digital marketing strategies, particularly social media advertising and influencer marketing, affect consumer decision-making. Using a mixed-methods approach, we analyze survey responses and conduct in-depth interviews to explore consumer perceptions and behaviors. Findings suggest that digital marketing significantly impacts purchase decisions by enhancing brand awareness, trust, and engagement. Furthermore, personalized content and targeted advertisements increase consumer interaction, leading to higher conversion rates. The study contributes to marketing literature by highlighting key digital strategies that drive consumer engagement and purchase behavior. Implications for businesses include adopting data-driven marketing strategies and leveraging influencers to enhance consumer trust.
Keywords: Digital Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Social Media, Influencer Marketing, Brand Awareness.
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THEOLOGY OF COUNSELLING
OSEI RHODOLF DONKOR, GHANA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY COLLEGE.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17341696 | Page 01 to 28
Abstract
Theology of Counselling explores the integration of divine revelation, biblical principles, and human experience within counselling. Rooted in the belief that all true healing originates from God, this study presents counselling as cura animarum, the care of souls, where spiritual renewal, rather than mere psychological adjustment, is the ultimate goal. Drawing upon Scripture, church tradition, and theological reflection, counselling is portrayed as a sacred ministry that nurtures emotional, moral, and relational restoration in light of God’s redemptive plan. Within the biblical framework, human beings are understood as created in the imago Dei (image of God), bearing intrinsic worth and capable of transformation through grace. The Apostles’ Creed provides the doctrinal foundation for theological counselling, affirming belief in the Triune God Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as the basis of Christian hope, forgiveness, and renewal. Thus, theology shapes the counsellor’s worldview, ensuring that counselling remains Christ-centred, Spirit-led, and grounded in the authority of Scripture. The study concludes that the counselling theology provides a conceptual framework and a spiritual mission: to guide broken humanity toward reconciliation, wholeness, and communion with God through the wisdom and compassion revealed in Jesus Christ.
Keywords: Cura animarum, Biblical Foundation, Apostles’ Creed, imago Dei, Christian Counselling.
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The Question of Revelation Through Sacred Scripture
JEREMIAH OLALEKAN ADENIJI B. TH (Missiology); B. A. (Hons); M. A; Ph. D, DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF HUMANITIES AJAYI CROWTHER UNIVERSITY, OYO.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17320477 | Page 01 to 27
Abstract
This paper provides a critical examination of the concept of divine revelation through sacred scripture, focusing primarily on the Christian Bible. It addresses the fundamental question of whether the universe possesses an overall purpose and how various religious traditions, particularly Christianity, claim that God provides a special revelation to interpret religious experiences. The analysis begins by exploring theories that assert the Bible’s infallibility and inerrancy, namely the Perfect Wording Theory, which posits that every word is divinely intended, and the Perfect Meaning Theory, which allows for stylistic variation while maintaining the inerrancy of the core message. Subsequently, the paper investigates alternative perspectives that concede the presence of errors in the scripture. The Essential Truth Theory is presented as a view that, while acknowledging minor inaccuracies, upholds the Bible’s trustworthiness on essential matters of faith and salvation. The discussion then moves to more interpretive and existential approaches, including the Key Images Theory and the Sacred Encounter Theory, the latter heavily influenced by Rudolf Bultmann’s program of “demythologizing.” This theory views the Bible not as a repository of historical facts but as a medium for a personal encounter with the divine. Ultimately, the paper concludes by positioning the Bible as a “seedbed of interpretations”—a complex collection of human documents that should be subject to critical inquiry rather than being accepted as a supernaturally infallible text.
Keywords: Biblical Inspiration, Divine Revelation, Infallibility, Inerrancy, Perfect Wording Theory, Essential Truth Theory, Sacred Encounter Theory, Rudolf Bultmann, Demythologizing, Hermeneutics, Theology.
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Academic Freedom in Palestinian Universities: Challenges and Perspectives
Khaled Ahmad Ateyeh Alhassanat, Amal riut technology high school, Beersheba.
Sonia Abdulfattah Ibrahim Shehadeh, Palestine Technical University Khadoorie Palestine.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17311277 | Page 01 to 41
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate reality of academic freedom in Palestinian universities, and examined the role of variables gender, Educational institution, place of residence, Years of experience, and Academic rank. The descriptive approach used. A questionnaire consisting of (14) used. The population confessed of all faculty members at the universities under study, totaling 1,488 male and female employees (Al-Aqsa University 459, Khadouri University 363, Birzeit University 436, and Bethlehem University 203) for the 2021/2022 academic year, and was selected a random sample of 366 male and female employees, representing 25% of the total study population, The results showed that the reality of academic freedom in Palestinian universities was high. The result also revealed that there were no statistically significant differences due to place of residence, however, it shows that there were statistically significant differences due to gender variable, in favor of females; academic institution with differences between the responses of Al-Aqsa and Bethlehem in favor of Bethlehem, Khadouri and Bethlehem in favor of Bethlehem, and Birzeit and Bethlehem in favor of Bethlehem; academic degree variable, in favor of a bachelor’s degree; the academic rank variable, with differences between the responses of instructors and lecturers in favor of lecturers; between the responses of instructors and assistant professors in favor of assistant professors; between the responses of lecturers and associate professors in favor of associate professors; and between the responses of assistant professors and associate professors in favor of associate professors. In light of the study result the researcher recommend including enhancing awareness programs on academic freedom, supporting research autonomy, developing curricula that encourage critical thinking, protecting academics’ rights, addressing disparities related to gender and academic levels, and promoting collaboration among Palestinian universities to strengthen a culture of academic freedom.
Keywords: Academic Freedom, Palestinian Universities, Challenges, Perspectives.
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PHILOSOPHICAL UNDERSTANDING OF CLASSICAL THEISM AND THE TELEOLOGICAL ARGUMENT
JEREMIAH OLALEKAN ADENIJI B. TH (Missiology); B. A. (Hons); M. A; Ph. D, DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES FACULTY OF HUMANITIES AJAYI CROWTHER UNIVERSITY, OYO.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17310109 | Page 01 to 21
Abstract
This paper provides a philosophical examination of the teleological argument as a justification for the existence of the God of Classical Theism. It begins by defining Classical Theism, with its tenets of an omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent creator who exercises providential control over the universe. The traditional teleological argument, which infers a divine designer from the perceived order and harmony in nature (the “watchmaker” analogy), is presented and analyzed, with a focus on the intricate design of the human body and eye. Subsequently, the paper critically evaluates significant challenges to this argument. These include the difficulty of discerning divine purposes, the problem of disharmony and suffering in the natural world (e.g., predation, natural disasters), and the powerful rival hypothesis of Darwinian evolution, which explains apparent design through natural selection and random variation. Alternative explanations for evil and disorder, such as the “devil hypothesis,” are also considered. Finally, the paper assesses the “Wider Teleological Argument,” which focuses on the universe’s general capacity to support life and moral development. The analysis concludes that the teleological argument, in both its traditional and wider forms, fails to provide sufficient support for the omnipotent God of Classical Theism and may instead point toward a limited deity or no deity at all.
Keywords: Classical Theism, Teleological Argument, Argument from Design, Providence, Philosophy of Religion, Problem of Evil, Evolution, Intelligent Design
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OVERCOMING MYSTIFYING LEADERSHIP CRISIS IN ALADURA CHURCHES IN NIGERIA
Timoteu Popoola, Ph. D, Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Humanities Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Chilaka Chimezie Emmanuel, Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Humanities Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Oyo State, Nigeria.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17310056 | Page 01 to 12
Abstract
The leadership crisis in Aladura churches in Nigeria stems from the complex interplay between their spiritual foundations and organizational weaknesses. Rooted in prophetic revelations and charismatic authority, many of these churches prioritize personal spiritual experiences over collective leadership and institutional order. As a result, succession disputes, doctrinal conflicts, and struggles over church assets often arise following the decline or death of founding leaders. The absence of well-defined administrative frameworks and succession plans has led to schisms, weakened unity, and diminished credibility among members seeking spiritual stability. This paper examines the mystifying leadership crisis within the Aladura movement, highlighting its underlying causes, manifestations, and consequences. It further emphasizes the need for holistic reformation that integrates spiritual discernment with leadership training, accountability, and organizational discipline. The study concludes that by adopting biblical servant leadership principles, transparent governance, and collective decision-making guided by the Holy Spirit, Aladura churches can overcome leadership crises, restore harmony, and strengthen their prophetic witness in Nigeria’s dynamic Christian landscape.
Keywords: Mystifying, Leadership, Crisis, Aladura and Churches.
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The Communion: A Measure of Righteousness or a Memorial Code
Dennis Ampofo-Nimako, (Leadership, and Old Testament Studies) Ghana Baptist University College.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17310002 | Page 01 to 25
Abstract
This article examines Christian Communion’s theological and practical significance, questioning whether it should be primarily viewed as a measure of righteousness or as a memorial code. Drawing from biblical texts, church tradition, and contemporary theological perspectives, the study evaluates Communion’s varying interpretations and practices throughout Christian history. It argues that while some traditions emphasise Communion as a test of spiritual worthiness and moral standing, others focus on its role as a remembrance of Christ’s sacrificial death. This article highlights the tension between these perspectives and proposes a balanced understanding that recognises Communion as a memorial of Christ’s redemptive work and a transformative means of grace that calls believers to holiness. By addressing doctrinal, ethical, and pastoral dimensions, this paper contributes to a deeper appreciation of the sacrament and its influence on shaping Christian identity and practice.
Keywords: Communion, Measure, Righteousness, Memorial Code.
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SETTING ASIDE DEFAULT JUDGMENT IN THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT IN NIGERIA- PRINCIPLES, PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE
Prof Obiaraeri, N. O., Faculty of Law, Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria.
MSI Journal of Arts, Law and Justice (MSIJALJ) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/17293306 | Page 01 to 18
Abstract
This paper critically analysed stipulations of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019 on default judgment and decided cases on them. It established that though default judgment is a final judgment, a Defendant under the weight of default judgment in the Federal High Court is not shut out forever from the altar of justice. The paper further found that satisfying the requirement for setting aside default judgment is a herculean task on the part of the Defendant and an onerous judicial discretion that must be exercised judiciously by the trial Court. Hence, the paper graphically revealed what steps a defendant should timeously take to get a reversal of default judgment in this Court. Being that default judgment is not set aside as a matter of course; the paper aggregated in a concise manner the legal principles that should guide this cadre of Court in yielding or rejecting to yield to upturn its judgment given in default. The paper viewed strongly that indolence in judicial proceedings should not be rewarded hence it recommended that the Court should not hesitate to refuse any application to disaffirm its default judgment that falls short of the stipulated Rules since equity assists only the vigilant.
Keywords: court, default, discretion, federal, judgment, set aside.
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