ICANBusiness LawLaw of Torts and Negligence2023

Chemical Processing Industries Plc accumulated large volumes of toxic liquid in an artificial reservoir on its industrial land. Due to an unprecedented, extraordinary, and unforeseeable torrential rainstorm classified as an 'Act of God', the reservoir wall collapsed, flooding Alhaji Bako's nearby farm and causing crop destruction valued at ₦15,000,000. Alhaji Bako sued under the Rule in Rylands v. Fletcher. What is the correct legal outcome under Nigerian law?

AChemical Processing Industries Plc is strictly liable because liability under Rylands v. Fletcher admits no defences.
BChemical Processing Industries Plc is not liable because an 'Act of God' (vis major) is a recognized defence to strict liability under Rylands v. Fletcher.CORRECT
CChemical Processing Industries Plc is automatically liable under the provisions of CAMA 2020 governing corporate environmental torts.
DChemical Processing Industries Plc is liable only if Alhaji Bako proves actual fraudulent intention by the company's board of directors.
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While the Rule in Rylands v. Fletcher imposes strict liability for the escape of non-natural accumulations on land, common law defences apply in Nigeria. An extraordinary and unforeseeable natural event, such as an Act of God (vis major), serves as an established defense exonerating the defendant from strict liability.
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