Admissibility of Computer-Generated Evidence in Nigerian Court of Law: Implications for Law Libraries

The paper reviewed the inclusion of computer generated evidence in Nigerian court of law with respect to its implication for law libraries. Attention was given more to the e-library system which generates and disseminates legal information via electronic format. It was revealed that the new Evidence Act 2011 having incorporated Admissibility of Statements in Documents Produced by Computers which was not specifically provided for in the earlier Evidence Act 2004, presents opportunities to the law library leading to expansion of its scope and integration of e-system, platform for online Alternative Dispute Resolution, face to face and virtual services, Ask-a-Librarian and Library Study and video conference rooms services. It was concluded that Admissibility of Computer Generated Evidence in Nigerian Court of Law has given law library a platform to expand its technological outfit and to expect possible inclusion of other devices rather than computers as admissible in the court of law. These possible devices may be smart phones, tablets, digital cameras etc. It is possible that social media platforms such as facebook, whatsapp, twitter, badoo, messenger, Google, Instagram, Linkedin etc. may be useful as evidence in law. It was recommended that the law libraries should be up-to-date with legal trends as to enable them make necessary adjustments or expansions in their services. Law libraries will need to train staff capable of identifying changes in judicial system to provide and assist users with services and tools that reflect those changes