Examining the Consequences of Ebola Outbreak in Nigeria on Personal Rights and Commercial Transactions

Abstract

The rapid and unchecked spread of Ebola Virus Disease has created serious problems for health authorities and professionals within the local and international community. More so, the socio-economic implications of the spread of these diseases to infected persons, their families and the global community at large is alarming as viral diseases are catalysts for economic shutdowns, international border closures, and the termination of contractual relations and suspension of free movement of persons. Government may lawfully quarantine persons who are suffering from infectious or contagious disease regardless of their rights to personal liberty. However, imposing sanctions might not increase compliance with quarantine measures. Whether the Ebola outbreak in Nigeria may be treated as a force majeure event will depend on whether the description of force majeure events can be interpreted in a way to accommodate the Ebola outbreak or whether the Ebola outbreak makes performance of contractual obligation impracticable.

Keywords: Ebola, Nigeria, Commercial Contracts, Frustration, Force-majeure, personal liberty, experimental drug, informed consent