AN APPRAISAL OF THE METHODOLOGIES FOR LEGAL RESEARCH IN NIGERIA

There are varieties of legal research methodologies that a legal researcher can choose to carry out research. These methodologies range from the general approaches of legal research to specific ones. The general methodologies consist of approaches such as Qualitative, Quantitative, Analytical, Case Study, Theoretical and Comparative Study. The specific methodologies include Doctrinal, Empirical and Teleological methods of research. The problem, however, is that doctrinal research constitutes the dominant research pattern to most legal researchers and excursion outside traditional legal materials is of no utility to them. Consequently, they remain ignorant to other alternative methods of research. Using the doctrinal method, this paper appraises the methodologies for legal research in Nigeria. The paper posits that Law Lecturers are pre - occupied with their teaching functions and use doctrinal method of research for the purpose of publications, promotions and to enhance their income. The paper recommends that Law Lecturers should: include empirical and other alternatives to legal research.