HomeAbout Us Practice AreasOur Team News & InsightsContact Us Careers
24, Ebun Street, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, 9:00am – 5:00pm
+234 916 808 6836 enquiries@splp-law.com 𝕏 f in ig wa yt
Practice Areas

Constitutional & Human
Rights Law

We are staunch defenders of civil liberties, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law — representing clients in matters involving unlawful detention, discrimination, police brutality, violations of due process, and infringements on constitutionally guaranteed rights.

Home/ Practice Areas/ Constitutional & Human Rights Law

At Smith & Partners LP, we are staunch defenders of civil liberties, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. Our constitutional and human rights law practice is driven by a deep commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of individual dignity. We represent clients in matters involving unlawful detention, freedom of expression and assembly, discrimination, police brutality, violations of due process, and other infringements on constitutionally guaranteed rights.

We advise both individuals and civil society organisations on their rights under the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, and international human rights instruments. Our approach combines strategic litigation, legal advocacy, and policy engagement to promote systemic change and empower victims of rights violations.

One of our partners was part of a legal team that challenged the indefinite detention of protestors arrested during a peaceful assembly in Abuja. The Federal High Court ordered their immediate release, awarded damages, and set a precedent affirming citizens' right to protest.

We are currently representing a group of women who were arbitrarily arrested and profiled during a security sweep in a major Nigerian city. Our firm filed a fundamental rights enforcement action challenging violations of their right to dignity, freedom from discrimination, and personal liberty.

Our firm recently advised a human rights non-profit on structuring a strategic litigation campaign to address extrajudicial killings and torture by law enforcement agencies — coordinating with international partners, filing public interest lawsuits, and drafting policy papers advocating for police reforms.

At Smith & Partners LP, we do more than litigate — we advocate, advise, and reform. Our expertise in constitutional and human rights law reflects our unwavering dedication to defending individual rights, holding institutions accountable, and strengthening Nigeria's democratic framework.

Key Matters & Experience
Protestors' Right to Assembly
Challenged the indefinite detention of protestors arrested during a peaceful assembly in Abuja. The Federal High Court ordered their immediate release, awarded damages, and affirmed the constitutional right to protest.
Fundamental Rights Enforcement
Representing women arbitrarily arrested and profiled during a security sweep — filing a fundamental rights enforcement action challenging violations of dignity, freedom from discrimination, and personal liberty.
Strategic Public Interest Litigation
Advising a human rights non-profit on a strategic litigation campaign addressing extrajudicial killings and law enforcement torture — coordinating international partners and driving police reform advocacy.
Freedom of Movement
Representation of an individual whose passport was unlawfully seized by a government agency. The litigation secured a court order mandating its return and a declaration affirming the constitutional right to freedom of movement.
Legislative Advisory
Contributed to a human rights impact assessment for a proposed data surveillance bill, ensuring full compliance with international civil liberty standards before submission to the legislature.
Discrimination & Dignity Claims
Advisory and litigation support for individuals facing discrimination, harassment, or dignity violations by state actors, employers, or institutions — combining strategic litigation with ADR where appropriate.
Why Smith & Partners LP

The Standard We Hold
Ourselves To

Excellence Without Compromise
We deliver legal services with unmatched precision, strategic thinking, and uncompromising quality. Every case, client, and transaction is handled with a deep commitment to excellence — whether it's a complex commercial negotiation or high-stakes litigation.
Deep Industry Knowledge & Versatility
With a robust understanding of Nigeria's legal landscape and a multidisciplinary team of professionals, we offer tailored solutions across sectors. Our diverse expertise ensures we approach every brief with the right mix of insight and innovation.
Client-First Legal Partnership
We are not just legal advisers; we are long-term partners in our clients' success. From individuals to large institutions, we provide responsive, transparent, and client-centric services that anticipate challenges and deliver enduring value.
Smith & Partners LP
24+
Practice Areas
Get Started Today
Speak Directly With Our Legal Team
Book a Consultation Contact Us

By subscribing you agree to receive updates from Smith & Partners LP.