Nigeria, May 16 -- A subpoena is a legal document issued by a court or authorized legal body that orders a person to do one of two things:

A subpoena means you are legally required to cooperate with a court process by showing up to speak or handing over certain information. Ignoring it can result in penalties, fines, or even arrest.

Subpoenas are applicable in Nigeria, though the term more commonly used in Nigerian legal practice is"witness summons," especially in civil and criminal courts.

Here's how it works in Nigeria:

1. Witness Summons (Similar to a Subpoena)

A Nigerian court can issue a witness summons to compel:

This applies in criminal, civil, and customary court matters.

2. Legal Backing

The procedure is backed by various...