Abstract

The paper critically examined the dominant legal ideology of the Nigerian judges and their attitudes towards statutory interpretation. This was done in the light of the traditional and modern methods, and techniques of judicial reasoning and decision making. It condemned the strict constructionist legal approach which appears to be the pervading orientation of the judges and called for a truly broad and liberal approach that will advance social justice and promote national development. The methodology used was that of analyzing and evaluating rules of statutory interpretation, and the methods and techniques of judicial reasoning and decision making.

Key words: Administration of justice, legal ideology.