Nigerian Legal Methods

Nigerian Legal Methods

Edited by

C. C. Ohuruogu and O. T. Umahi

 Nigerian Legal Methods,
Edited by C. C. Ohuruogu and O. T. Umahi

This book first published 2013

Cambridge Scholars Publishing

12 Back Chapman Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 2XX, UK

British Library Cataloguing in Publication Data

A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library

Copyright © 2013 by C. C. Ohuruogu, O. T. Umahi and contributors

All rights for this book reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,
or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner.

ISBN (10): 1-4438-5126-4, ISBN (13): 978-1-4438-5126-8

 DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to the memories of Mazi Mark Chikere Ohuruogu, a.k.a
“MC” (1932-1995), an educationist par excellence, community leader and disciple
of Christ whose exemplary life touched many people, and Chief William Ikeji
Umahi, a.k.a “Omeluatu I of Mgbowo” (1924-2005) of blessed memory; a
community leader, health professional and peace builder. They laid the solid
foundation on which we have built.

And to the Alpha, the Omega, the everlasting Father, in whom there is neither
variableness nor shadow of turning⎯GOD.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Cases ............................................................................................ ix

Table of Statutes ....................................................................................... xiv

Preface .................................................................................................... xviii

Acknowledgements .................................................................................. xix

Chapter One ................................................................................................. 1

Law in Social Context
Lilian Akhirome-Omonfuegbe

Chapter Two .............................................................................................. 17

Aspects of Law
Theophilus Chinedu Nwano

Chapter Three ............................................................................................ 38

Law as an Instrument of Social Control
Chukwuma Famous Ikechukwu

Chapter Four .............................................................................................. 49

Legal Reasoning and Approach to Problems
Oyekanmi Idode Adewoye

Chapter Five .............................................................................................. 59

Legal Reasoning in Judicial Processes
Chukwudumebi Okoye

Chapter Six ................................................................................................ 79

Legal Reasoning in Legislation
Jesuorobo Emmanual Idugboe
viii Table of Contents

Chapter Seven.......................................................................................... 100

Sources of Law in Nigeria
Josephine Omi Obasohan

Chapter Eight ........................................................................................... 116

Secondary Sources of Law
Chukwuemeka Celestine Okoro Esq

Chapter Nine............................................................................................ 121

Use of Source Materials
Theresa Uzoamaka Akpoghome

Chapter Ten ............................................................................................. 147

Legal Research Writing in Nigeria
Okechukwu Timothy Umahi

Chapter Eleven ........................................................................................ 171

Regulation of the Legal Profession in Nigeria
Nkechi Huomachi Worluh-Okolie

Chapter Twelve ....................................................................................... 195

Advocacy and Mooting Skills
Onyeka Osuji

Chapter Thirteen ...................................................................................... 215

Examination Skills and Strategies
Okechukwu Timothy Umahi and Collins Chikaodili Ajibo

Contributors ............................................................................................. 224

Index ........................................................................................................ 228

 TABLE OF CASES

A.G. Bendel State v. A.G. of the Akwule and Others v. The Queen
Federation and 22 Others (1982) (1963) NNLR 105 ......................... 82
All NLR 85 ................................... 82 Aladetoyinbo v. Adewunmi (1990) 6
A.G. Ondo State v. A.G. of the NWLR (pt. 154) 98 ..................... 182
Federation (2002) 9 NWLR (pt Alaka v. Alaka (1904) 1 NLR
772) 722 ........................................ 82 55................................................. 108
A.I.C. Ltd v. Nigerian National Alake v. State (1991) 1 NWLR (pt.
Petroleum Corporation (2005) 205) 567 ........................................ 28
NWLR (pt. 937) 572 ............... 67, 71 Alao v. V.C. Unilorin (2008) 1
Abiodun v. FRN (2009) 7 NWLR NWLR (pt. 1069) 425 ................... 77
(pt. 1141) p. 509 ............................ 66 Alhaji Karimu Adisa v. Emmanuel
Action Congress v. Jang (2009) 4 Oyinwola (2000) 10 NWLR (pt.
NWLR (pt. 1132) 485 ................... 73 674) 116 ........................................ 75
Adegboyega & sons v. Igbinosun Ali Safe v. Northern States
(1969) NMLR 9 SC....................... 37 Marketing Board (1972) 1 All
Adeniran v. Interland Transport Ltd NLR 61 ........................................ 180
(1991) 9 NWLR (pt. 214) 155 Alibi-Rasaki v. State (2011) 16
SC ................................................. 28 NWLR (pt. 1273), 251 .................. 66
Adesanya v. A.G. Federation, SC Amori v. Iyanda (2008) 3 NWLR
(1964) 130 ................................... 194 (pt. 1074) 261 .......................... 69, 73
Adesubokan v. Yinusa (1971) Ansa v. Registered Trustees of the
NWLR 71 .................................... 112 Presbyterian Church of Nigeria
Adewusi v. State (1963) 1 All NLR (2008) 1 NWLR (pt.1069) ............. 77
316 ................................................ 28 Aoko v. Fagbemi (1961)1 All NLR
Aduku v. FRN (2009) 1 NWLR (pt. 400......................................... 23, 112
1146) 377 ...................................... 73 Archibong v. Duke (1926) 4 NLR
African Press Ltd v. Ikejiani (1953) 92................................................. 108
14 WACA 386 .............................. 28 Aromolaran v. Oladele(1990) 7
Afro-Continental Nig. Ltd v. NWLR (pt.162), 359 ..................... 36
Ayantuyi (1991) 3 NWLR (pt. Aseimo v. Abraham (1994) 8
178) 211 ........................................ 75 NWLR (pt.361) 191 CA ................ 67
Agbai v. Okagbue (1991) 7 NWLR Atake v. Afejuku (1994) 12 SCNJ
(pt.204) 391 SC ............................. 36 1................................................... 182
Agidigbi v. Agidigbi (1992) 2 Awolowo v. Minister of Internal
NWLR (pt. 221) 98 ..................... 112 Affairs (1962) 1 All NLR 178 ..... 178
Aje v. State (2006) 8 NWLR (pt.
982) 349 ........................................ 23
x Table of Cases

B.J. Export & Chem. Co. Ltd v. Commonwealth Shopping

Kaduna Refining & Petro-Chem. Representatives v. P.O. Branch
Co. Ltd (2003) FWLR (pt. 165) Services (1923) AC 191 at 213...... 36
445 .............................................. 108 Comptroller of Nigerian Prison v.
Babatunde & Anor v. Olatunji & Adekanye (1999) 10 NWLR (pt.
Anor (2000) NWLR (pt. 648) 623) 400 ........................................ 74
557 ................................................ 72 Concord Press (Nig) Ltd v. Olutola
Bakare v. Ishola (1959) WRNLR (1999) 9 NWLR (pt. 620) 578 ....... 74
106 ................................................ 28 Courtney v. Glanvil (1615) Cro Jac
Barclays Bank v. Hassan (1961) 343................................................. 34
NNLR 293 .................................... 76
Beaulieu v. Finglam (1401) YB 2 Dalhatu v. Turaki (2003) 15 NWLR
Hen 4, f 18, pl. 6 ........................... 32 (pt.1843) p. 310 ....................... 71, 72
Bello v. A.G. Oyo State (1985) 5 Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932) A.C
NWLR (pt. 45) 828 ....................... 25 562 (HL)................................ 50, 143
Brown v. Adebanjo (1986) 1 NWLR Dorset Yacht Co. v. The Home
383 .............................................. 109 Office (1970) AC 1004 .................. 56
Buhari v. Obasanjo & Ors. (2005) 2
NWLR (pt. 910) 321 ......... 67, 69, 76 Edet v. Essien (1932) 11 NLR 47 ... 111
Elebanjo v. Tijani (1980) 5 NWLR
Carter v. Bradbeer (1975) 1 WLR (pt.46) 954 ................................... 184
1204 at 1205.................................. 92 Eloichin Nig Ltd v. Mbadiwe (1986)
Central London Property Trust Ltd 1 NWLR (pt. 14) 47 ...................... 42
v. High Trees House Ltd (1947) Ezeokafor v. Ezeilo (1999) NWLR
KB 130 All ER 265 ....................... 35 (pt. 619) 369 .................................. 72
Charles Richards Ltd v.
Oppenheion (1950) KB 616 Famfa Oil Limited v. Attorney
at 623 ............................................ 34 General of the Federation (2003)
Chedi v. A.G. Federation (2008) 18 NWLR (pt. 852) 453 ................ 10
NWLR (pt. 1067) 168 ................... 71 Fayemi v. Oni (2009) 7 NWLR (pt.
Chianugo v. State (2002) 2 NWLR 1140) ............................................. 72
(pt. 750) 225.................................. 22 FMG v. Ken Saro Wiwa & 8 others
Chief Loveday Ebere& 2 ors. v. Unrep. Suit No. OCDT/PH/1/95 .... 25
John Onyenge (2000) 2 NWLR
(pt. 643) 63 at 80 ..................... 68, 76 G & T Investment Ltd v. Witt &
Chief Young Dede v. African Bush Ltd (2011) 8 NWLR (pt.
Association (1910)1 NLR 130 .... 106 1250), 500 S.C............................... 65
Chinwendu v. Mbamali (1980) 3-4 Gallagher v. Lynn (1937) A.C. 863 ....82
SC 31 at 82.................................... 58 General Sani Abacha and ors v.
Chiroma Giremade v. Bornu Native Chief Gani Fawehimwin (2000)
Authority (1961) All NLR 469 ...... 82 NWLR (pt. 4) 533 ......................... 72
Chukwu v. State (1992) 7 LRCN 83 . 23 George v. Fajore (1939) 15 NLR
Clark v. State (1986) 4 NWLR 1 .................................................. 108
(pt.35) p.381.................................. 24 George v. FRN (2011) 10 NWLR
Cole v. Akinyele (1960) 5 FSC 84 .. 112 (pt. 1254) p. 67 .............................. 66
 Nigerian Legal Methods xi

Griffin v. Donnelly (1881) 6 QBD Mackson Ikeni and Anor. v. Chief

P.307 ............................................ 85 William Akuma Efamo (2001) 14
NWLR (pt.734) 539 at 546............ 77
H.B. (Nig) Plc v. Lodigiami (Nig) Magna Maritime Services Ltd &
Ltd (2010) 14 NWLR (pt. 1213) Anor v. S.A. Oteju & Anor.
330 ................................................ 45 (2005) All FWLR (pt. 270), 6
Hedley Byrne & Co Ltd v. Heller SC 92 ........................................... 182
(1963) 2 All ER 575 .................... 143 Mariyama v. Sadiku Ejo (1961)
Hill Station Hotel Ltd v. Adeji NRNLR 81 .................................. 111
(1996) 4 NWLR (pt. 442) 294....... 75 Martins v. Malade (1930) 9 NLR
House of Assembly Bendel State v. 53 ................................................ 109
A.G. Bendel State (1984) 5 Meribe v. Egwu (1979) 3 SC 23 ..... 111
NCLR p.161 .................................. 86 Military Governor of Lagos State &
others v. Ojukwu (1986) ANLR
Ibeziako v. Abutu (1954) 3 ENLR 233................................................. 42
24 ................................................ 108 Mkpedem v. Udo (2000) 9 NWLR
Ibidapo v. Lufthansa Airlines (1997) (pt. 673) 631 .................................. 77
4 NWLR (pt. 498) 124 ................ 109 Modupeola Johnson v. State (1986)
Igabete v. State (2006) 6 NWLR 4 NWLR (pt. 35) 381 .................... 25
(pt. 975) 100.................................. 66 Muyiwa Inakoju and ors v. Hon.
IGP v. All Nigerian Peoples Party Abraham Adeolu Adeleke and ors
(2007) 18 NWLR, (pt.1066) (2007) All FWLR (Pt. 353) p.97 ... 10
457 ............................................ 5, 11
Ikpeazu v. African Continental Bank N.B.A v. Odiri (2007) 8 NWLR (pt.
Limited (1965) NMLR 374 ......... 194 1035) 203 .................................... 192
Imo Concord Hotel v. Anya (1999) National Assembly v. President
4 NWLR (pt. 234) 210 .................. 76 (2003) 9 NWLR (pt. 824) 104 ...... 82
INEC v. Action Congress (2009) 2 Ndili v. J. M. Akinsumade & Anor.
NWLR (pt. 1126) 546 ................... 75 (2000) NWLR (pt. 5) 750 at 786 ... 72
INEC v. Hashidu (2009) 4 NWLR Neath v. Rydley (1614) Cro Jac
(pt. 1130) 78.................................. 73 335................................................ 34
INEC v. Musa (2003) 10 WRN 1 ... 103 NEPA v. Akpata (1991) 2 NWLR
INEC v. Oshiomohle (2008) WRN (pt. 175) 536 ................................. 71
24 .................................................... 6 NEPA v. Alli (1992) 8 NWLR (pt.
259) 276 ........................................ 71
John Holt (Nig) Ltd v. Halt African Niger-Benue Transport Co. Ltd v.
Workers Union of Nigeria & Ogele Construction (2010) 18
Cameroon (1963) 1 All NLR NWLR (pt. 1196) p. 258 ............... 61
397 .............................................. 109 Nordenfelt v. Maxim Nordenfelt
Johnson v. Lufadeju (2002) 8 Cums and Ammunition Co. (1894)
NWLR (pt. 768) 192 ..................... 24 AC 535 ........................................ 142
Nwangwu v. Ukachukwu (2000) 6
Larinde v. Ajiko & Anor. (1940) 6 NWLR (pt. 662) 674 ..................... 77
WACA 108 ................................... 36
Obi v. INEC (2007) 11 NWLR
(pt.1046) 565 ................................. 74
xii Table of Cases

Obi-Odudu v. Duke (2008) 10 Queen v. Imadebhor Eguabor

NWLR (pt.932) 120 ...................... 74 (1962) 1 All NLR 287 ................. 184
Odinaka v. Moghalu (1992) 4
NWLW (pt. 233) 1 at 15 SC ......... 28 R v. Secretary of State, Hillingdon
Odugbo v. Abu (2001) 14 NWLR LBC (1986) 1 WLR p.192 ............. 85
(pt. 732) 45.................................... 71 R. v. Sussex Justice, Ex parte
Oil field Supply Centre Ltd v. McCarthy (1924) 1 KB 259........... 61
Johnson (1987) 2 NWLR 625 ..... 109 Re A. C. Abuah (1962) 1 All NLR
Ojisua v. Aivebelehin (2001) 11 279 at 285 .................................... 194
NWLR (pt. 723) 44 ..................... 110 Re Certain Legal Practitioners 5
Ojule v. Okoya (1968) 2 All NLR FSC 233....................................... 194
342 .............................................. 108 Re Cyril v. Rogers Wright 7 WACA
Okike v. L.P.D.C & 3 Ors. (2005) 17 ................................................ 194
15 NWLR (pt. 949) 471 .............. 193 Re Martin (1843) 6 Beav. 337, 49
Oko v. Nkudiken (1993) 2 SCNJ 33 ... 36 ER 856 ........................................ 194
Okonjo v. Council of Legal Rechitt & Colman Ltd v. Gongoni
Education FAC/L16/78 March 12, Co. Ltd (2001) 8 NWLR (pt. 718)
1979 ............................................ 185 592................................................. 72
Oladekoji v. Inspector General of Ritz & Co v. Techno Ltd (1999) 4
Police (2011) 16 NWLR (pt. NWLR (pt. 598) ............................ 72
1273) p. 430 .................................. 61 Roe v. Wade 410 U.S. 113, 93 S.
Olagbemiro v. Ajagungbade 111 Ct. 705, 35 L. E. d 2nd 147 (1973) ...61
(1990) 3 NWLR (pt. 136) 37....... 111 Rondel v. Worsley (1969) 1 AC
Olaseni v. Olaseni (2010) 5 NWLR 191............................................... 184
(pt. 1187) p. 253 ............................ 61 Rotibi v. Savage (1944) 17 NLR
Olutola v. University of Ilorin 77 ................................................ 112
(2005) NWLR (pt. 905) 416.......... 77 Ryland v. Fletcher (1866) LRL Ex
Onigbongbo Community v. Minister 265................................................. 71
of Lagos Affairs and Ors (1971)
LPELR-SC271/1971 ................... 184 Safe v. Northern State Marketing
Oshoboja v. Amida (2009) 18 Board (1972) 1 SC 19 ................. 178
NWLR (pt. 1172) 194 ................... 75 Saliso v. Police (1960) WNLR 213 ... 24
Owie v. Ighiwi (2005) 5 NWLR (pt. Savage v. Sarrough (1937) 13 NLR
917) 814 ........................................ 75 141............................................... 108
Owoniyin v. Omotosho (1961) 1 All Seager v. Copydex (1967) 1 WLR
NLR 304 ..................................... 110 123................................................ .33
Shagari v. Awolowo (1979) 6-9 SC
Pawodu v. Danmole (1958) 3 FSC 51 .................................................. 60
46 ................................................ 112 Solomon v. Gbabo (1974) UILR (Pt.
PDP v. Haruna (2004) 16 NWLR 111) 396 ...................................... 111
(pt. 904) 597.................................. 73 State v. Njoku (2010) 1 NWLR (pt.
PDP v. INEC (1999) 11 NWLR 1175) 243 ...................................... 41
(pt.626) 200 SC ............................... 9 State v. Oladotun (2011) 10 NWLR
Pharmatek Industrial Projects Ltd (pt. 1256) p. 572 ............................ 66
v. Trade Bank (Nig) Plc (2009) 13
NWLR (pt. 1159) 596 ................... 75
 Nigerian Legal Methods xiii

Sweeney v. The Department of Wan v. Ibrahim (1997) 9 NWLR

Highways (1933) O.W.N 783 (pt. 519) ....................................... 113
(CA) ............................................ 139 Werthein v. Chiccoutime Pulp Co.
(1911) AC 301 (PC) .................... 143
Taiwo v. Dosumu (1966) NMLR 4 White house v. Jordan (1981) 1
SC ................................................. 37 WLR 246 (HL) .............................. 62
Taiwo v. Lawani (1961) All NLR Wood v. Lucy 222 N.Y. 88, 90-91
703 .............................................. 109 (1917) .............................................. 3
Tofi v. Uba (1967) 3 NWLR (pt. 62) Wood v. Martins Bank Ltd (1971)
707 CA .......................................... 23 AC 79 ............................................ 33
Yakugbe v. C.O.P. (1992) 4 NWLR
Ukorah v. State (1977) 4 SC 167 at (pt. 234) 152 .................................. 75
171 ................................................ 25 Yusuf v. Obasanjo (2003) 16 NWLR
Utih v. Onoyivwe (1991) 1 NWLR (pt. 847) 544 .................................. 73
(pt.116) 166................................... 75 Yusuf v. State (2011) 18 NWLR (pt.
Uwazurike v. A. G. Federation 1279) p.853 ................................... 61
(2008) 10 NWLR (pt. 1096) 452... 77
Uzodinma v. Police (1982) 1 NCR
27 ................................................ 180
 TABLE OF STATUTES

Arbitration and Conciliation Act S. 58(5)....................................... 80

CAP A18 Laws of Federation of S. 59 ........................................... 81
Nigeria 2004 ..................................... 44 S. 59 (2)...................................... 82
S. 59 (3)...................................... 82
Body of Benchers Regulations of S. 59 (4)................................ 80, 82
1983 ............................................... 186 S. 62 (3)...................................... 82
Regulation 1(2) ........................ 187 S. 77 (2)...................................... 12
Regulation 2(2) ........................ 187 S. 117 (2) .................................... 12
Regulation 3(2) ........................ 186 S. 121 ....................................... 114
S. 222 ......................................... 12
Child Rights Act, 2003 ....................... 6 S. 230 (1) .................................... 74
S. 235 ......................................... 74
Constitution of the Federal S. 237 ......................................... 74
Republic Nigeria, 1999 (Amended S. 247 ......................................... 74
2011) .............................. 30, 49, 50, 53 S. 251 ......................................... 76
S. 1 ........................................... 182 S. 270 ......................................... 74
S. 1 (2) ....................................... 14 S. 275 (1) .................................... 74
S. 2 ............................................. 13 S. 280 ......................................... 74
S. 3 ....................................... 13, 22 S. 292 ....................................... 182
S. 4 (1) ................................. 49, 80
S. 4 (2) ................................. 50, 80 Constitution of the Nigerian Bar
S. 6 (1) ....................................... 59 Association 2001 ............................ 181
S. 6 (5) ................................. 73, 74 Article 19 ................................. 181
S. 12 (1) ................................... 114
S. 14 (2) (a) ................................ 15 Conveyancing Act 1881 ................. 106
S. 14 (2) (b) ............................ 8, 13
S. 33 (2) (c) ................................ 27 Companies and Allied Matters Act
S. 33 (5) ..................................... 66 CAP 20, Vol. III, LFN 2004f.... 46, 181
S. 35 (5) ..................................... 66 S. 35 (3).................................... 181
S. 36 ........................................... 53 S. 37 ........................................... 46
S. 36 (12) ............................. 14, 23
S. 38 ........................................... 11 Criminal Code Act, CAP C38 Laws
S. 38 (4) ..................................... 11 of Federation of Nigeria, 200414, 23, 49
S. 40 ................................. 5, 10, 11 S. 3 ............................................. 24
S. 41 ........................................... 11 S. 37 ..................................... 14, 23
S. 45 ....................................... 6, 11 S. 38 ..................................... 14, 23
S. 56(2) ...................................... 81 S. 252 ......................................... 23
S. 58 ........................................... 81 S. 383 ............................. 23, 27, 49
S. 58(4) ...................................... 80
 Nigerian Legal Methods xv

Criminal Procedure Act CAP C41, S. 68 ........................................... 62

2004 ................................................. 22 S. 73 ........................................... 36
S. 2 ............................................. 24 S. 121 ......................................... 65
S. 255 ......................................... 26 S. 131 ......................................... 65
S. 270 ................................... 25, 26 S. 132 ......................................... 65
S. 300 ......................................... 26 S. 133 ......................................... 65
S. 308(5) (b) ............................... 26 S. 133 (2) .................................... 65
S. 309 ......................................... 26 S. 134 ......................................... 65
S. 368 (2) ................................... 25 S. 135 ......................................... 65
S. 368 (3) ................................... 26 S. 137 (2) .................................... 66
S. 377 ......................................... 25 S. 138 (2) (c) .............................. 66
S. 385 ......................................... 26 S. 139 ......................................... 66
S. 386(2) .................................... 26 S. 140 ......................................... 66
S. 387 ......................................... 26 S. 141 ......................................... 66
S. 391 ......................................... 24 S. 175 ......................................... 62

Criminal Procedure Code

S. 25 ........................................... 26 Fatal Accident Acts 1846 and 1864 106
S. 270 ......................................... 25
S. 271 (3) ................................... 25 Federal High Court Act .................... 44
S. 272 (3) ................................... 25 S. 17 ........................................... 44
S. 308(4) .................................... 26
S. 308(5) .................................... 26 Fraudulent Conveyances Acts
1571 ................................................ 106
Criminal Procedure Law, Lagos
State CAP C118, 2003 ..................... 22 High Court of Federal Capital
Territory, Abuja (Civil Procedure
Decree No. 1 (Suspension and Rules), CAP 114, 2004 ............... 22, 45
Modification) 1966........................... 30 Order 17 ..................................... 45

Decree No.13 (Supremacy and High Court of Lagos State (Civil

Enforcement of Powers) 1990 .......... 30 Procedure) Rules, Lagos State, CAP
114 2004 ............................... 21, 36, 45
Education Tax (Amendment) Act, S. 13 ........................................... 35
CAP E2 Laws of Federation of S. 14(3)....................................... 36
Nigeria 2004 .................................... 48 S. 15 ........................................... 35
S. 1(2) ........................................ 48 S. 26 ........................................... 36

Nigerian Evidence Act No. 18, Infants Relief Acts 1874 ......... 106, 109
2011 .......................................... 22, 30
S. 1 ....................................... 63, 64 Interpretation Act, 1964.......... 105, 107
S. 2 ............................................. 36 S. 45 (1).................................... 107
S. 10 ........................................... 62
S. 12 ........................................... 62 Land Use Act of 1978....................... 29
S. 14 (3) ............................... 36, 37
S. 18 (3) ................................... 109 Land Transfer Acts 1897 ................ 106
xvi Table of Statutes

S. 11 (2).................................... 192
Limitation Acts (Real Property S. 11 (7).................................... 194
Limitation Acts 1833 as amended S. 12 ......................................... 179
in 1874) .......................................... 106 S. 12 (1).................................... 192
S. 12 (1) (c) (i)-(iii) .................. 194
Legal Education (Consolidation, S. 12 (2).................................... 192
etc.) Act 1976 CAP. L10, LFN S. 12 (4).................................... 191
2004 ....................... 175, 176, 179, 185 S. 13 ......................................... 179
S. 1 ........................................... 185 S. 14 ......................................... 179
S. 1 (2) ............................. 185, 186 S. 15 ......................................... 179
S. 2(1) .............................. 185, 186 S. 15 (1).................................... 190
S. 3 ........................................... 179 S. 15 (3).................................... 190
S. 5 ................................... 179, 186 S. 16 ......................................... 179
S. 6 ........................................... 179 S. 17 ......................................... 179
S. 7 ........................................... 179 S. 18 ......................................... 179
S. 8 ........................................... 179 S. 19 ......................................... 179
S. 9 ........................................... 179 S. 20 ................................. 179, 191
S. 22 ................................. 178, 179
Legal Practitioners Act, CAP L11 S. 22 (d).................................... 181
LFN, 2004 ...................... 175, 176, 179 S. 23 ......................................... 179
S. 1 ................................... 179, 190 S. 24 ......................................... 179
S. 1(1) ...................................... 190 S. 25 ......................................... 179
S. 1(2) ...................................... 190
S. 2 ................................... 176, 179 Legal Practitioners (Amendment)
S. 2 (1) ..................................... 176 Decree No. 21of 1994..................... 186
S. 2 (2) ..................................... 178 S. 3 (1).............................. 186, 187
S. 2 (3) ..................................... 176
S. 3 ................................... 179, 186 Marriage Act CAP M2 Laws of
S. 3(1) .............................. 186, 187 Federation of Nigeria 2004 ............... 44
S. 4 ........................................... 179 S. 47 ........................................... 44
S. 4 (1) ..................................... 176
S. 5 ................................... 179, 186 Magistrate Courts Law, Lagos State
S. 5 (1) ..................................... 189 2003 ............................................ 35, 44
S. 5 (2) ..................................... 189 S. 23 ........................................... 35
S. 5 (3) ..................................... 188
S. 5 (4) ..................................... 188 Partition Acts 1868 and 1876 ......... 106
S. 5 (7) ..................................... 189
S. 5 (8) ..................................... 189 Professional Bodies (Special
S. 6 ........................................... 179 Provisions) Act 1972 ...................... 177
S. 7 ........................................... 179 S. 2 (b)...................................... 177
S. 7 (1) ..................................... 176
S. 8 ........................................... 179 Professional Bodies (Legal
S. 8 (2) ..................................... 181 profession) Exemption Order 1973 ... 177
S. 9 ........................................... 179 Penal Code CAP 89, (applicable in
S. 10 ......................................... 179 the Northern part of Nigeria) ............ 26
S. 11 ................................. 179, 192 S. 68 (1) (b) ............................... 26
 Nigerian Legal Methods xvii

S. 387 ......................................... 41 Sale of Goods Act 1893.......... 106, 109

S. 388 ......................................... 41
Settled Land Acts 1882 (as
Recovery of Premises Ordinance Amended) ....................................... 106
CAP 176 (Lagos).............................. 30
Statutes of Fraud 1677 .................... 106
Recovery of Premises Law CAP
113 (Eastern Region) etc .................. 30 Supreme Court Act 2004 ............ 35, 36
S. 17 ..................................... 35, 36
Rules of Professional Conduct of
Legal Practitioners, 2007........ 171, 180 Taxes and Levies (Approved List
Rule 1 ....................................... 183 for Collection) Act, CAP T2
Rule 2 ....................................... 183 LFN 2004 ............................. 47, 48
Rule 3 (1) (a) ............................ 183
Rule 4 ....................................... 183 Trustee Acts 1888 ........................... 106
Rule 6 (2) ................................. 181
Rule 6 (3) ................................. 181 Wills Law of Lagos State CAP 194
Rule 6 (4) ................................. 181 Laws of Lagos State 1994 ................ 44
Rule 7 ....................................... 182 S. 4 ............................................. 44
Rule 8 ....................................... 181
Rule 14 ..................................... 184 Wills Act, 1837 ........................ 44, 106
Rule 15 ..................................... 184 S. 9 ............................................. 44
Rule 15 (2) (a) .......................... 183
Rule 16 ..................................... 184
Rule 16 (b) ............................... 183
Rule 17 ..................................... 184
Rule 18 ..................................... 184
Rule 19 ..................................... 184
Rule 19 (2) ............................... 184
Rule 20 ..................................... 184
Rule 21 ..................................... 184
Rule 22 ..................................... 184
Rule 23 ..................................... 184
Rule 24 ..................................... 184
Rule 25 ..................................... 184
Rule 27 ..................................... 183
Rule 30 ..................................... 182
Rule 31 ..................................... 182
Rule 32 ............................. 182, 183
Rule 33 ..................................... 182
Rule 34 ..................................... 182
Rule 35 ..................................... 182
Rule 37 (2) ............................... 183
Rule 39 (3) ............................... 183
Rule 47 (1) ............................... 183
 PREFACE

This text is a collection of writings on assigned topics by some

scholars and lecturers in the Faculty of Law at Benson Idahosa University
and those invited from outside. The idea to write a text for use in the study
of legal methods for law students was borne out of the desire to present a
range of updated material in this area of study.
The focus of this text is Nigeria. It is written in simple, easy-to-
understand language, and meant essentially for law students in the first
year of the five year course in Law, as structured by the National
Universities Commission (NUC). Nevertheless, persons who have need of
information or education on different aspects of Nigerian legal process
will also find aspects of the text useful. In addition, advanced students and
researchers will find some parts of the text useful, particularly those parts
dealing with legal research and writing.
The contributors come from diverse backgrounds and experiences,
which is reflected in their styles of presentation. However, each has
endeavoured to present the assigned topic in such a form as to enhance
comprehension by the primary beneficiaries.
The inclusion of the chapters on advocacy and mooting skills, as well
as examination skills and strategies make this text unique, and beyond
what existing texts in Nigeria provide. In the course of time, additional
topics will be added when we prepare the next edition.

Prof. C.C. Ohuruogu and Dr. T.O. Umahi

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The academic leadership provided by Professor MacDonald IDUH,

Vice Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University until April 30, 2013 made
it worthwhile to embark on this project. We sincerely appreciate him.
The various contributors who had to endure our constant “harassment”
and worked day and night to meet tight schedules are worthy of
celebration. Kudos.
One person we owe a debt of gratitude is Peter Ndubuisi MBAH Esq.
LL.B (UEL); LL.M (Maritime & Commercial Law) LASU, MBA; we are
grateful for the provision of both moral and financial support for this book.
 CHAPTER ONE

LAW IN SOCIAL CONTEXT

LILIAN AKHIROME-OMONFUEGBE1

Introduction
In any given society, it is imperative that there should be some set
standards or rules to regulate the affairs of people. The ability to make
rational choices is one of the major distinguishing features which set men
apart from animals. However, where there is freedom of choice, abuse is
inevitable. Thus, as far back as biblical days, the need for man to abide by
rules so as to avoid chaos and anarchy has always existed. Today even
ordinary people regularly make laws for their own circumstances; it is a
way of regulating behaviour.2 Let us look at our everyday life; for
example, if you set up a club or a committee which accords its members
certain rights and privileges, it becomes a necessity to put in place some
form of body of rules or code of conduct to regulate the affairs of the
club/committee. An absence of a body of rules or code of conduct will no
doubt lead to abuse of the rights and privileges which the members
possess.
Looking at this illustration, it is important to note also that this body of
rules or code of conduct will not only prescribe a set standard for the
members, but will also make provision for some form of sanction or
penalty, e.g. payment of fine or loss of membership, in the event that any
member does not abide by them. This is important because a code of
conduct/body of rules brings about rights and privileges as well as duties.
Where there is no means of enforcing the body of rules/code of conduct,
these rights will be abused and duties may never be executed. The

1
LLM (Wales), LL.B (AAU), BL, Lecturer in Law, Benson Idahosa University,
Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
2
A. Bradney et al, How to Study Law, 3rd ed., (London: Sweet and Maxwell, 1995),
3.
2 Chapter One

members have to be aware that if they do not abide by the rules, they will
be punished; this consciousness brings about obedience and conformity,
and suppresses deviant behaviour.3 The same goes for the society at large.
All over the world, no matter how free a society claims to be, there must
be laws in existence and a system in place to enforce these laws. Sanctions
or penalties must also be put in place as a guide, to protect the interests of
the entire society. Therefore where a man possesses rights and privileges,
there must be corresponding duties/obligations on his part. In other words,
where the law imposes on him a duty, it creates also a right in his favour.
This chapter has so far shown that law is necessary to ensure a free,
safe, orderly and progressive society. It is important for the people of a
society to live a normal and free life and have commercial, religious and
personal relationships with one another in peace, safety and orderliness.
This chapter will discuss the nature, definition and functions of law. It will
also examine some of the legal concepts which describe the aims and
objectives of law⎯that is, how law serves as a check and balance in
society.

The Nature of Law

The nature of law simply means the attributes or features and
characteristics of law, not the definition; law does not possess a single or
definite attribute. It is diverse, and includes the following:

1. A collection of rules to be obeyed; that is, it can be said to be a

collection of do’s and don’ts. It prescribes what a person should or
should not do.4
2. It provides remedies for a person against whom a wrong has been
committed, as well as sanction or penalty for a person who has
disobeyed the law.
3. In times past, laws evolved from customs. In Nigeria, our
customary law is a part of our legal system. In the present day, by
contrast, laws are made by legislature or parliament depending on the
legal system of the country. In Nigeria, laws/statutes are made by
legislature.
4. Laws which evolved from custom are largely unwritten, although
these days some are partly written and others have evolved through

3
J. H. Farrar and A. M. Dugdale, Introduction to Legal Method (London: Sweet
and Maxwell, 1990), 6.
4
E. Malemi, The Nigerian Legal Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010), 8.
 Law in Social Context 3

judicial precedent. However a major feature of law today is that it is

written (codified).
5. Sometimes law and morality are confused. They may be used
together in certain situations, but law is not the same as morality.
Although law may reflect the morality of a society, the main difference
is the existence of sanctions which exist in conjunction with law.
6. Law is fundamental⎯it covers all aspects of human existence.
For everything in life, there is a law.
7. Law can also be seen as the answer/response to societal problems
or issues. That is, the law makers make the law to address a particular
issue or problem/condition prevalent in a society.
8. The aim of law is fairness and equity. Thus the popular saying
“no man is above the law.” The law serves to bring about justice. For
example, the statue of justice is blindfolded and holds two equal scales;
this signifies that law promotes justice, fairness and equality
irrespective of your colour, economic or academic status. “Law is not a
one way traffic, ... and all persons should be able to approach the seat
of justice openly without inhibitions or handicap.”5 However, on rare
occasions law may lead to injustice, for example where a strict
interpretation is applied.
9. As noted above, sometimes a strict interpretation of the law may
lead to injustice and this creates a gap between justice and the law.
This can be addressed by amendments. Thus we can say that law is not
static; it evolves. Dynamism is one of its distinctive features. It is
continually amended to meet societal needs and changes. Justice
Benjamin N. Cardozo, Justice of the US Supreme Court put it
succinctly thus; “The law, like the traveller must be ready for the
morrow. It must have a principle of growth.”6
10. Law is the last hope of the common man. It helps organize a
society. Its existence brings about development, growth, stability and
hope in a society. It gives the people a sense of security, and helps to
structure a society as well as maintain that structure.
11. Law is territorial:7 it guides and binds the conduct of people
within a given territory. Even though the law of the different places

5
Hon. Justice P. A. Onamade, Guide to Words and Phrases in Nigerian Law, Vol.
2 (Lagos: Philade Company Ltd, 2003), 649 para. 1469.
6
Justice B. N. Cardozo, The Growth of the Law, (New Haven: Yale University
Press; 1924), pp. 19-20. See also the case of Wood v. Lucy 222 N.Y 88, 90-91
(1917).
7
A. O. Sanni, Introduction to Legal Methods (Ile-Ife: Obafemi Awolowo
University Press Limited, 2006), 7.
4 Chapter One

might be similar; there will always be differences which distinguish

one town from another.

What Is Law?
Over the years, there have been several attempts at a definition of this
concept. However numerous the definitions are today, none is free from
criticism. There cannot be said to be any authoritative, complete or
absolute definition of law. Nevertheless, the overall attempt to define the
concept has succeeded in one way or another to capture the essence of
what law ultimately is.
The difficulty in achieving an absolute definition may be due to the
dynamic and evolving nature of the law. Thus everyday new features of
this concept are discovered, such that the definitions of previous years
become limiting and do not completely or sufficiently describe law. Some
of the definitions attributed to law include:

• A rule of behaviour; a code of conduct. It is the rules and

regulations of a particular country, usually made by the legislative arm
of government which orders the way persons, bodies and society
should behave.8
• The whole reservoir of rules from which judges draw their
decisions.9
• The rule of action which is prescribed by a superior person or
body and which an inferior person or body is bound to obey.10
• A body of rules made by institutions, bodies and persons vested
with the power to make such rules which are binding and enforced
among the members of a given society.11

Some schools of thought however believe that the definition of law is

only complete when it includes the presence of sanctions; following this
understanding, law is therefore defined as rules whose obedience is

8
E. Malemi, The Nigerian Legal Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010),
7.
9
See L. B. Curzon, Basic Law: An Introduction for Students, 1990, cited in E.
Malemi, The Nigerian Legal Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010), 7.
10
Sir William Blackstone (1923-1980), cited in E. Malemi, The Nigerian Legal
Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010), 7.
11
B. A. Garner, Black’s Law Dictionary 9th ed. (St. Paul, Minnesota: West Group;
2009).
 Law in Social Context 5

secured by sanctions;12 that is, a body of rules made by the Sovereign, to

be obeyed by the people, disobedience of which would attract sanctions.
John Austin (1954),13 who propounded the Command Theory of Law, put
it succinctly thus: “That law is a command set by a political superior for a
political inferior, which the inferior has to obey or suffer sanction.”14 This
definition, though clearly applying to criminal law with regard to sanctions
(punishment of offenders), has however been criticized as it has been
argued by scholars that law is not always couched in the form of a
command. Some laws are only procedural e.g. the Marriage Act15 in
Nigeria which regulates statutory marriages, or the Civil Procedure Rules
of the various state high courts in Nigeria.
Another criticism is that in modern democratic countries today, there
no longer exists a “political superior” who has unlimited powers. For
example, in Nigeria, the Constitution16 posits that the people of Nigeria
made and adopted the Constitution as their supreme law and appointed the
government into power through their vote. In essence, the government and
the people work hand in hand and the leaders are not to be seen as
“uncommanded commanders.”17 In the case of IGP v. All Nigerian
Peoples Party & Others,18 the respondents had contended in court that the
Public Order Act19 was unconstitutional, as its provisions constituted a
breach of fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and association
provided in the Constitution.20 The Federal High Court, Abuja held that
the Public Order Act was unconstitutional and in breach of the rights of
the respondents to freedom of peaceful assembly. On appeal, the Court of
Appeal affirmed the judgment of the trial court. This example clearly
shows why the command theory does not give a very good definition of
law as it stands today.

12
A. O. Obilade, The Nigerian Legal System 3rd ed. (Ibadan: Spectrum Books Ltd,
2005), 3.
13
John Austin (1954) of the Positive Theory school of thought, cited by L. B.
Curzon, Jurisprudence 2nd ed., (London: Cavendish Publishers Limited), 99-110.
14
John Austin of the Positive Theory school of thought.
15
CAP M.6, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN) 2004.
16
The preamble to the 1999 Constitution as amended 2011; see also Chapter 1 of
the Constitution.
17
E. Malemi, The Nigerian Legal Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010),
61.
18
(2009) 18 NWLR (Pt. 1066) p.457.
19
1990 (now 2004).
20
Section 40, 1999 Constitution as amended 2011.
6 Chapter One

All of these definitions have attempted to capture the meaning of law.

Similarities run through all the various definitions. In essence, therefore,
law can be understood to mean a set of rules which prescribe the standard
by which persons or bodies should behave/conduct themselves in society.

Functions of Law
1. Law provides a structured framework for a society, guiding and
regulating all aspects of human existence and relationships. In other
words, it stipulates what a good, orderly, safe, peaceful and organized
society should look like, such that any behaviour, relationship or
institution that promotes or creates anything outside that stipulated
framework will be seen as contrary to the law or illegal.
2. Law serves to guarantee and streamline the freedom, rights and
duties of the members of a society. Therefore, though an individual
may possess “absolute” freedom, the law puts a limit to such freedom21
in order to protect the interests of other members of society.
3. Law serves as a medium for resolving disputes or conflicts. It
follows therefore that there exist the necessary institutions like law
courts, tribunals, etc, to carry out these functions. Law also seeks to
provide remedies and justice to people who have suffered negatively22
by the action or inaction of another. The most obvious way in which
law contributes to the maintenance of social order is the way in which
it deals with disorder or conflict.23
4. Law can also be put in place specifically to address or respond to
a particular societal problem or issue.24 For example, the increase in
child abuse and child trafficking in recent times have made it necessary
for laws prohibiting and punishing such offences to be put in place.25
5. For there to be social order and balance in a society, there has to
be well-formulated law and institutions or systems put in place to
enforce such law. Thus law serves as a formal mechanism of social
control. It plays a major role in ensuring the existence and maintenance
of order in a society. “… When the law curbs the excesses of the strong

21
Section 45 of 1999 Constitution as amended 2011.
22
INEC v. Oshiomohle (2008) WRN 24, where the gubernatorial aspirant
(Oshiomohle) contested the INEC election result in court and judgment was given
in his favour; he was returned as the legitimate governor of Edo state of Nigeria.
23
G. Slapper and D. Kelly, The English Legal System, 12th ed. (Essex: Pearson
Education Limited, 2012), 2.
24
Ibid, p. 2.
25
See Child Rights Act, 2003.
 Law in Social Context 7

and balances their rights and duties as well as powers… then we can
say the law has dominion…”26
6. Finally, law constitutes and regulates the principal organs of
power in a society.27

This chapter has looked at the nature, definition and functions of law.
A good question to ask at this stage is what the main aim or objective of
the law is particularly in relation to its functions, what does the law aim to
achieve as its end result?

Aims and Objectives of Law

In summary, the law serves as a check and balance in society. It
ensures that every individual is accorded certain rights and privileges as a
human being, but stipulates that individuals must exercise those rights in
such a manner that will not interfere with the rights and privileges of
others in society.
Some of the legal concepts describing the aims and objectives of law
are as follows:

1. Law and Order

According to Gary Slapper and David Kelly,28 “law plays an important
part in the creation and maintenance of social order.”29 The major aim of
any government is to maintain law and order within its territory. In order
to achieve this, laws are usually put in place and institutions/bodies set up
for the enforcement of these laws. This is because the law would no doubt
be useless if there was no means of enforcing it.
A. O. Obilade30 in defining law explains that, in the absence of law,
there would be chaos and anarchy. Imagine a society in which people were
allowed free reign, with no rules and no code of conduct⎯disaster would
be prevalent in such an environment. Therefore, the law is an instrument

26
O. N. Ogbu, Modern Nigerian Legal System (Enugu: CIDJAP Publishers, 2002),
7.
27
J. H. Farrar and A. M. Dugdale, supra note 3.
28
G. Slapper and D. Kelly, The English Legal System, 12th ed., (Essex, United
Kingdom: Pearson Education Limited, 2012), 2.
29
Ibid, p. 2.
30
A. O. Obilade, The Nigerian Legal System, 3rd ed., (Ibadan: Spectrum Books
Ltd, 2005), 3.
8 Chapter One

of social control to promote order in society. This is the main reason for
the creation of a government and governing bodies in any society. For
example, in Nigeria, the Constitution provides that “the promotion of the
welfare and the good of the people shall be the primary purpose of the
government.”31
Similarly, in the international scene, where countries interact with each
other, different rules (treaties, conventions. etc) are put in place to regulate
the relationships between them.32 Even during war, when it may seem as if
there is no order, law comes into force and ensures that the war is fought
according to the laws of war. For example, international humanitarian law
(IHL) deals with law applicable during armed conflict (all cases of
declared war).33 One of the main provisions under IHL is that combat must
be restricted between combatants only and civilians should not be
attacked. Thus, the elderly, women and children are protected at times of
war.34 Breach of law of war is a ‘war crime;’ for example, Charles Taylor,
former president of Liberia, was sentenced to fifty years in prison for war
crimes. There are numerous other examples of people punished for war
crimes by United Nations tribunals. Finally, for order to be maintained
through law, the enforcement and administration of law has to be done
without fear of favour to anyone, else this aim will be defeated.

2. Law and Justice

Some authors have defined justice as, “fairness, rightness, right, just,
good, reasonable.”35Justice is ultimately the correct application of the
law.36 Hence, we can say that justice simply means what is good, fair and
right. Justice seeks to promote equality. As discussed earlier on in this
chapter, the law is the last hope of the common man. The fact that the law
aims at promoting justice is the reason why a man cannot do wrong to his

31
Section 14 (2) (b) of the, 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended 2011.
32
For example, trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights agreement.
33
W. Kälin et al, Law of International Human Rights Protection (Oxford: Oxford
University Press, 2009), 108.
34
Ibid, p. 81. See also M. Sassòli et al, How Does Law Protect in War? Cases,
Documents and Teaching Materials on Contemporary Practise in International
Humanitarian Law, Vol. 11, 2nd ed. (Geneva: ICRC, 2011), 128, 132.
35
E. Malemi, The Nigerian Legal Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010),
114.
36
A. O. Sanni, Introduction to Legal Methods (Ile-Ife: Obafemi Awolowo
University Press, 2006), 32.
 Law in Social Context 9

fellow man and not receive a penalty. This serves as a deterrent to other
members of society.
Justice seeks to balance the conflicting or competing interests of
people in society. There are two main types of justice:

a. Formal justice
b. Substantive justice

a) Formal justice

This is when the law is applied strictly and mechanically by the court.
In this case, the judge will interpret the law as it is, without regard or
recourse to any external factors or influence (how he feels or what he
thinks). One of the arguments in favour of formal justice is that it does not
see anything wrong with the law as it is and as such can be applied the
way it is without fear or favour. Proponents of this type of justice also
posit that it promotes clarity and certainty of the law, since everyone will
know what the law is and follow it as it is without allowing external
considerations to affect the interpretation or application. This is the type of
justice achieved when the literal rule of interpretation of statutes37 are
applied by judges. See the case of PDP v. INEC,38 where the court held
that if the wording of a statute is clear and unambiguous it should be given
its clear and literal meaning. It was also held in that case that if there is a
gap in statutory provisions, it is the job of the legislature to correct it, not
that of the judges. Thus the judges should interpret the law as it is without
modification.
Nevertheless, a major demerit of this type of justice is that since it does
not see anything wrong with the law, it does not encourage improvement,
change or development of the law. Considering the fact that one of the
major features/attributes of law is its dynamism and ever-evolving nature,
this is a big minus for the theory of formal justice. Law should not be
static; it has to constantly improve and develop to suit the ever growing
and changing needs of society.

37
This is when the judge gives the words of statute their literal and ordinary
meaning.
38
(1999) 11 NWLR (Pt. 626) p. 200 SC.
10 Chapter One

b) Substantive justice

This is when the court adopts a more liberal approach in the

application of law. Here, the judge will consider some external factors
especially if a strict application of the law will lead to manifest hardship. It
is the need to do substantive justice that led to the existence of the doctrine
of equity in the history of English law.39 Common law, which had already
been in existence, was found to be too strict and inflexible and caused
manifest hardship on the people.40 Thus the Chancellor or Judges of the
Chancery Court interpreted the law liberally to achieve substantive
justice41 and fairness. Substantive justice is also known as judicial
activism.
This type of justice is more predominant today as judges are now more
interested in achieving justice than strictly interpreting the law. For
instance, technicalities during court proceedings are no longer a ground for
striking out cases in court. Previously, the fact that a court process was not
properly endorsed, or if the heading bore the wrong name of court or
wrong section of the law under which it was brought, was usually enough
grounds to strike out the matter. However today the case is different as
courts are encouraged to promote justice and lean less on technicalities.42

3. Law and Freedom

Freedom is a state of being free. It means liberty, right to do what one
wants to do, or right to refrain from what one does not want to do.43 Man
has an innate desire to be free at all times. The history of mankind is
replete with stories of how man has pursued this desire from time
immemorial. This accounts for the various wars and protests that man has
waged in a bid to counter domination and intimidation.

39
G. Rivlin, Understanding The Law, 4th ed. (Oxford: Oxford University Press,
2006), 26, 27.
40
C. Elliott and F. Quinn, English Legal System, 12th ed. (Essex: Pearson
Education Limited, 2012), 117.
41
Ibid, p. 27.
42
See the case of Famfa Oil Limited v. Attorney General of the Federation. (2003)
18 NWLR (pt 852) 453; see also Muyiwa Inakoju and Ors v. Hon. Abraham
Adeolu Adeleke and Ors- [2007] All FWLR (Pt. 353) 3 p. 97 where Niki Tobi JSC
asserted that justice should prevail over technicalities.
43
E. Malemi, The Nigerian Legal Method (Lagos: Princeton Publishing Co, 2010),
117.