Modern Practice of Civil Litigation in Nigeria

By Maiyaki Theodore Bala

This book represents a compendium of the authors exposition and experience in the emerging and dynamic area of civil litigation which today indispensably constitutes the backbone of every Practitioners success in civl law practice. Civil Litigation is technical in nature and accounts for the premature termination of most civil cases, without the opportunity to hear the substantive subject. This book has provided for Students, Judges, Teachers and practitioners the requisite guide in modern practice in civil litigation in Nigeria with a view to enhancing their proficiency in practice and presentation.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse UK
• Release date: Jul 10, 2015
• ISBN: 9781504943529

Maiyaki Theodore Bala

Maiyaki Theodore Bala has practiced law since 1993 and has taught Civil Litigation at the University of Abuja-Nigeria for about 7years. He holds a Ph.D in International Economic Law from the University of Jos-Nigeria. He is a researcher, and has authored two books in the area of Mortgage Banking and International Economic Law. A combination of the foregoing has given him the sound background to this modest contibution in the area of Mordern Civil Litigation. He is married with 3 children

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© 2015 Maiyaki Theodore Bala Ph.D, BL. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 07/03/2015

ISBN: 978-1-5049-4351-2 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-5049-4350-5 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-5049-4352-9 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Dedication

Preface

Foreword

Table of Cases

List of Statutes

Acronyms

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION TO CIVIL LITIGATION

Meaning and Objectives of Civil Litigation

Sources of Civil Litigation

Chapter 2

PRELIMINARIES TO COMMENCEMENT OF A SUIT

Cause Of Action

Capacity To Sue (Locus Standi)

Jurisdiction

(a) Jurisdiction by Court Composition

(b) Subject Matter Jurisdiction

(c) Jurisdiction with Reference to Nature of Suit

(d) Territorial Jurisdiction

Law In Force

Limitation Period (Statute Bar)

Conditions Precedent

Chapter 3

PARTIES TO AN ACTION

Capacity to Sue and Be Sued

(a) Infants

(b) Lunatics

(c) Partners

(d) Trustees

Other Categories of Parties

1. Statutory Bodies

2. Trade Unions

3. Organizations

4. Government

Types of Parties

(a) Necessary Party

(b) Desirable Party

(c) Nominal Party

(d) Proper Party

Representative Action

(a) Conditions for Representative Action

(b) Procedure for Representative Action

Joinder and Misjoinder Proceedings

(a) Joinder of Causes of Action

(b) Joinder of Parties

(c) Misjoinder of Parties

Chapter 4

HIERACHY AND JURISDICTION OF COURTS IN CIVIL LITIGATION

The Supreme Court

INTRODUCTION

1. Jurisdiction Of The Supreme Court

I. Original Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

II. Appellate Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court

The Court Of Appeal

Introduction

(a) Original Jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal

(b) Appellate Jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal.

The Federal High Court

Introduction

(a) Original Jurisdiction of the Federal High Court

(b) Appellate Jurisdiction of the Federal High Court

(c) Supervisory Jurisdiction of the Federal High Court

(d) Exclusionary Clauses

(e) Transfer of Matters

The High Court of a State

INTRODUCTION

(a) Original Jurisdiction of the State High Courts

(b) Appellate Jurisdiction of State High Courts

(c) Supervisory Jurisdiction of the High Court

(d) Exclusionary Clauses

The Sharia Court of Appeal

INTRODUCTION

(a) Jurisdiction of Sharia Courts of Appeal

The Customary Court of Appeal

INTRODUCTION

(a) Jurisdiction of Customary Court of Appeal

The National Industrial Court

INTRODUCTION

(a) Jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court

INTRODUCTION

(a) The Presidential Election Tribunal

(b) The National Assembly Election Tribunals

(c) The Governorship and Legislative House Election Tribunals

(d) The Local Government Election Tribunal

Procedure for Election Petition

(a) Powers of the Tribunal

The Investments and Securities Tribunal

(a) Jurisdiction of the IST

(a) Powers and Procedures of the IST

The Magistrate Court

(a) Civil Jurisdiction of Magistrate Courts

(b) Appellate Jurisdiction of the Magistrate Court

District Court

Introduction

Jurisdiction Of The District Court

The Area Court

(a) Civil Jurisdiction of Area Courts

(a) Appellate Jurisdiction of the Area Court

The Sharia Court

(a) Original Jurisdiction of Sharia Courts

(b) Appellate Jurisdiction of the Sharia Court

The Customary Court

(a) Civil Jurisdiction of Customary Courts

(b) Applicable Law

The National Judicial Council

Chapter 5

MODES OF COMMENCING CIVIL PROCEEDINGS

INTRODUCTION

The Magistrate/ District Courts

(a) Plaint

(i) Default Summons

(ii) Excess Jurisdiction

(b) Originating Application

THE HIGH COURT

(a) Writ of Summons

i) Endorsement of Writs

ii) General Endorsement

iii) Special Endorsement

iv) Other Endorsements

(b) Petition

(c) Originating Summons

(d) Originating Motion

Service Of Court Processes

Chapter 6

PLEADINGS

Functions of Pleadings

(1) Defining Disputed Issues

(2) Conformity with Principle of Fair Hearing

(3) Notice to the Court

(4) Limit of Action and Record

(5) Burden of Proof

(6) Cause of Action

(7) Alternative Dispute Resolution

Drafting of Pleadings

(a) Contents of Pleadings

Formal Requirements of Pleadings

Statement of Claim

(a) The Introductory Averment

(b) The Body

(c) Reliefs or Prayer

Statement of Defence

a) Admission

b) Traverse or Denial

i) General Traverse

ii) Specific Traverse

iii) Matters that Need Not Be Traversed

I. Law

II. Relief Sought

III. Particulars

IV. Matters of Inducement

(c) Confession and Avoidance

(d) Set-Off

(e) Counter-Claim

i) Objection on Points of Law

(f) Reply

The Fall Side of Pleadings (Defective Pleadings)

(a) Proceedings in Lieu of Demurrer

(b) Reasonable Cause of Action/Defence

(c) Frivolous, Vexatious, and Obnoxious Pleadings

Chapter 7

PRE-TRIAL AND TRIAL IN CIVIL LITIGATION

Pre-Trial Proceedings

(a) Settlement of Issues

(b) Pre-Trial Conference

(c) Consolidation of Suits

(d) Discoveries

(e) Interrogatories

(f) Inspection

The Trial Process

(a) Setting Matters Down for Hearing

(b) Court Appearances

(c) Arguing of Cases

(d) Closing Addresses

Chapter 8

INTERLOCUTORY APPLICATIONS

Modes of Instituting Interlocutory Proceedings

(a) Motion Ex-Parte

(b) Motion on Notice

(c) Affidavits

Classification of Interlocutory Applications

(a) Interim Injunction

(b) Interlocutory Injunction

(c) Mareva Injunction

(d) Anthon Pillar Injunction

(e) Interpleader Proceedings

(i) Stakeholder Interpleader

(ii) Sheriff’s Interpleader

(f) Third Party Proceedings

Chapter 9

SUMMARY JUDGMENT PROCEDURE

Types of Summary Judgment

(a) Summary Judgment under the Undefended List

(b) Summary Judgment under Order 11 Lagos Rules

(c) Summary Judgment on Admissions of Facts (by the Defendant)

(d) Summary Judgment for Account (on Application by Claimant)

(e) Summary Judgment for Possession of Landed Property

under Order 53 Lagos Rules.

(f) Judgment by Consent of the Parties

Chapter 10

JUDGMENT

Types of Judgment

(a) Consent Judgment

(b) Default judgment

(c) Final Judgment

(d) Interlocutory Judgment

(e) Summary Judgment

(f) Declaratory Judgment

Features of a Good Judgment

(a) Delivery in Open Court

(b) Judgment in Writing

(c) Evaluation of Evidence

(d) Confinement of Judgment to Pleadings

(e) Timeous Delivery of Judgment

Review and Amendment of Judgment

Orders of Non-Suit and Dismissal

(a) Non-Suit

(b) Dismissal

Chapter 11

ENFORCEMENT AND EXECUTION OF JUDGMENT

Modes of Executing Judgment

(a) Writ of Sequestration

(b) Writ of Fieri Facias

(c) Writ of Possession

(d) Writ of Delivery

(e) Judgment Debtor Summons

(f) Garnishee Proceedings

Chapter 12

INTERIM ORDERS PENDING APPEAL

Injunction Order

Stay of Execution

Stay of Proceedings

Chapter 13

APPEALS

Appeals from Magistrate/District Courts to High Court

Appeals from High Court to Court of Appeal

(a) Appeal Procedure

(b) Preliminary Objection and Withdrawal of Appeal

(c) Hearing and Judgment

Appeals from Court of Appeal to Supreme Court

(a) Appeal Procedure

(b) Preliminary Objection and Withdrawal of Appeal

(c) Hearing and Judgment

REFERENCES

DEDICATION

I dedicate this work to the reposed soul of my demised father Mr. Simon Bala Maiyaki (Deceased) who provided for my siblings and I the minimum infrastructure and super structure we required to survive the toils and trials to live meaningful lives 40 years after his passage. May your gentle soul rest in peace Dad.

PREFACE

Civil Litigation as a branch of law on procedure has undergone different evolutionary stages and reforms, particularly the High Court Civil Procedure Rules of the different states of the Federation. Despite the impressive progress made, there is so much more room for the development of our system of procedure in civil cases. Although there is a copious literature on the subject, this book prospects to fill in the gap of procedure in the light of recent practice and litigation developments, with the ultimate view of enhancing the administration of justice in civil cases.

Having been a legal practitioner for more than two decades and with considerable experience as a researcher, scholar and teacher in the field of law, the author holds with humility that there could not have been a better time to write this book than now. This subject is the backbone of advocacy as it exposes the Student, Teacher, Judicial Officers, the Bench as well as Legal Practitioners to the rudiments of legal practice and procedure. Considering the critical role that Civil litigation plays as an arm of adjectival law, it is desirable that the various schools and faculties of law should, as a matter of necessity include civil litigation or procedure as a core course in their curriculum, where it is being taught as an elective course.

Other interesting subjects as Enforcement of Fundamental Human Rights Rules, Election Petitions, Recovery of Premises, Probate Practice, Matrimonial Causes, and Alternative Dispute Resolution amongst others, which have lately gained prominence in our jurisprudence have been deliberately left out of this book and would be considered as separate works respectively in due course by the author.

Maiyaki Theodore Bala Ph.D, BL 2015

FOREWORD

Civil Litigation is undoubtedly an indispensable component of the Nigeria adversarial system of justice administration in the Courts. No Legal Practitioner can succeed without a sound knowledge of the principles of Civil Litigation or Civil Procedure as outlined in the Civil Procedure Rules of the various Courts. The Courts constantly interpret and apply the rules in deciding on matters brought before them by litigants or through Legal Practitioners. This book is a bold attempt by the author who is a seasoned researcher, writer and Legal Practitioner, to examine the current principles of Civil Litigation as applied in our Courts.

In thirteen chapters, the author discusses the principles of Civil Procedure applicable in the High Courts where the great majority of civil cases are conducted. It is not necessary to repeat the table content here. It suffices to say that the author has done an excellent job in restating the current law and practice pertaining to Civil Litigation in the Country. The author demonstrates his mastery of the subject through his ability to demystify aspects of the law of Civil Procedure which often appear recondite thereby, making it easily comprehensible and therefore, User-friendly. These include:

• The procedure for suing unincorporated bodies like partnerships;

• The procedure for obtaining leave to appeal to the Court of Appeal especially as regards the issue of Trinity prayers;

• The jurisdiction of the Federal High Court;

• The jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court under the Third Alteration to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999;

• Concurrent jurisdiction of the Investment and Securities Tribunal with the High Courts in certain matter; and

• Jurisdiction of the Customary Court of Appeal to adjudicate on a civil matter.

With the aid of illustrative cases, the author accentuates the steps that must be taken in commencing a case from the pre-trial stage to the judgment and appeal stages.

I can say without any hesitation that the book would be a helpful guide to judges, legal practitioners and law students. I commend the author for this weighty contribution to the Nigerian jurisprudence. I am pleased to recommend the book as a useful guide to Civil Litigation on Nigeria.

Hon. Justice Ishaq Bello,

Chief Judge

High Court of the FCT,

Abuja-Nigeria.

TABLE OF CASES

A

Abah Vs. Jabusco (Nig.) Ltd. (2008) 3 NWLR (Pt. 1075) 526 CA.

Abbas Vs. COP (1998) 12 NWLR (Pt. 577) 308 at 317.

Agbeje & Ors Vs. Adelekan (1990) 7 NWLR (Pt. 164) 595.

Abgonmagbe Bank Ltd Vs. GMGB Olivant Ltd & Anor(1961) ALL NLR 116.

Abiola Vs. Federal Republic of Nigeria (1995) 3 NWLR (Pt. 382) 203.

Abubakar Vs. B.O & A.P. Ltd(2007) 18 NWLR (Pt. 1066)319 SC.

Abuja Vs. Bizi (1989) 5 NWLR (Pt. 119) 120.

A.C.E. Jimona Ltd Vs. Nig. Electrical Contracting Co. Ltd (1976) 1 All NLR 122.

Achebe Vs. Nwosu(2003) 7 NWLR (818)103 at 128-129.

Achineku Vs. Ishagba (1988) 4 NWLR (Pt. 89) 411.

ACN Vs. Lamido (2012) 8 NWLR (1303) 560 SC.

Adebomi Vs. Haro DC (1965) NMLR 242.

Adeboye Vs. Ajaala (1998) 1 NWLR (Pt. 535) 631.

Adedirani Vs. Interland Transport Ltd (1999) 9 NWLR 225.

Adegboyega Vs. Igbinosun (1969) 1 NMLR 9.

Adegoke Motors Vs. Adesanya (1989) 6 NWLR 348.

Adelaja Vs. Alade (1999) 4 SCNJ 225 at 240.

Adeleke Vs. Cole (1961) 1 All NLR 35.

Adenuga Vs. Odumeru (2002) 8 NWLR (Pt. 821) 163 at 185.

Adepetu Vs. State (1996) 6 NWLR (Pt. 452) 90.

Aderemi Vs. Adedipe (1966) NMLR 398.

Adesanya Vs. President FRN (1981) 5 SC 112.

Adetona Vs. Zenith Int’l Bank Ltd. (2009) 3 NWLR (Pt. 1129) 577 CA.

Adetoro Vs. Ogo Oluwa Kitan Trading Co. Ltd. (2002) 9 NWLR (Pt. 711) 157 at 201.

Adeyemi Works Construction Nig. Ltd. Vs. Omolehin (2004) A F.W.L.R. (Pt. 232) 1564.

Adisa Vs. Oyinwola(2000) 6 SC (Pt. II) 47 at 75.

Afiaego Investments Nig. Ltd Vs. N.I.M.B. Ltd. (1992) FHCLR 400.

Afolabi Vs. Adekunle (1983) All NLR P. 470 at 481.

African Newspaper of Nigeria & Ors Vs. The Federal Republic of Nigeria (1988) 2 NSCC 798 at P. 803.

AG Abia State & 35 Ors Vs. AG Federation (2002) 3 SC 106 at 138.

AG Anambra Vs. AGF (2007) VOL 8 MJSC at 36.

AG Delta State Vs. Asin (2010) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1219) 347 CA.

AG Federation Vs. Abia State (2001) 11 NWLR (Pt. 725) 689.

AG Federation Vs. Agbokoba(1999) 3 SCNJ 1 at 20.

AG Kaduna State Vs. Hassan (1985) 2 NWLR 483.

AG Lagos State Vs. AG of the Federation (2004) 11-12 SC 85 at 112 (2004) 18 NWLR (Pt. 904) 1 at 89.

AG Ondo Vs. AG Federation & Ors (1983) 2 SCNLR 269.

AG Oyo State Vs. NLC Oyo State Chapter & Ors (2003) 8 NWLR (821)1.

Agbaje Vs. Younan (1974) 3 WACA 66.

Agbakoba Vs. INEC (2008) 18 NWLR (Pt. 1119) 489 SC.

Agro Millers Ltd Vs. CMB(1997) 10 NWLR (Pt. 525) 469.

Agu Vs. Nnadi (2002) 18 NWLR (Pt. 798) 103 at 119.

Agunbiade Vs. Okunuga & Co. (1961) All NLR 110.

Ahmed Vs. Trade Bank Nig. Plc (1997) 10 NWLR (Pt. 524) 290.

Aigbe Vs. Bishop Edokpolor (1977) 2 SC 15-16.

Aja Vs. Okoro(1991)9-10 SCNJ 1.

Ajayi Vs. Akinbobaami(2012) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1297) 480 CA.

Ajayi Vs. Jolayemi (2001) 5 SCNJ 250 at 268.

Ajayi Farms Ltd Vs. NACB (2003) 4 NWLR (Pt. 810) 427.

Ajayi Vs. Omorogbe (1993) 7 SCNJ (Pt. 1) 168 at 182.

Ajewole Vs. Adetimo (1996) 2 SCNJ 119 at 126.

Akande Vs. General Electric Co. (1979) 3 LRN 187.

Akapo Vs. Hakeem Habeeb (1992) 7 SCNJ 119.

Akhigbe Vs Ashimedu(2003) 6 NWLR (Pt. 817) 439 at 451.

Akinbobola Vs. Plisson Fisko & Ors (1991) NSCC (Pt. I) 105 at 115; (1991) 1 NWLR (Pt. 167) 270 at 285.

Akpan Vs. Otong (1996) 12 SCNJ 213 at 220.

Akpan Vs. Utim (1996) 6 SCNJ 244 at 256.

Akunnia Vs. Attorney General Anambra State(1977) 5 SC 161.

Alale Vs. Olu (2001) 7 NWLR (Pt. 711) 119 at 128-129.

Alao Vs. Omoniyi (1966 NWLR 161.

Alatada Vs. Falode & Anor(1966) ALL NLR 101.

Alawode Vs. Semoh (1959) 4 FSC 27.

Alcoy Rly Co. Ltd. Vs Grenhill (1896) 1 Ch. 19.

Alese Vs. Aladetuyi (1995) 7 SCNJ 40 at 50.

Ali Vs. Otanioku (1974) WSCA 184.

Ali Vs. State (2012) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1299) 260 CA.

Alliance for Democracy Vs. INEC (2004) ALL FWLR (234) 186 at 190.

Amaka Vs. Lt. Governor Western Region & Anor (1956) SCNLR 122.

Amusan Vs. Oluwani (2002) 12 NWLR (Pt. 780) 30 at 51.

Anammco Vs. First Marine Trust Bank (2000) 1 NWLR (Pt. 640) 309.

Anatogu Vs. Attorney General East-Central State (1976) 11 SC 109.

Anatogu Vs. Iweka II (1995) 9 SCNJ 1 at 34.

Anazodo Vs. Audu (1999) 4 NWLR (Pt. 600) 549.

Anthon Pillar KG Vs. Manufacturing Process Ltd(1976) 1 AER 779.

ANPP Vs. Goni (2012) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1298) 149 SC.

Anyakora Vs. Obiakor (2005) 5 NWLR (Pt. 919) 537.

Apapa Vs. INEC (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1303) 409 CA

Arab Bank Vs. Barri Eng. (Nig.) Ltd. (1995) 7 SCNJ 147 at 156.

Araka Vs. Ejeugwu(1999) 2 NWLR (Pt. 589) 107.

Arase Vs. Arase (1981) 5 SC 33.

Arjay Ltd Vs. A.M.S. Ltd (2003) 7 NWLR (Pt. 820) 577.

Arojoye Vs. UBA Ltd. (1986) 2 NWLR (Pt. 20) 101.

Aromire & Ors Vs. Awoyemi (1972) 1 All NLR (Pt. 1) 101.

ASTC Vs. Quorum Consortium Ltd (2009) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1145) 1 SC.

Arum Vs. Nwobodo (2004) 9 NWLR (Pt. 878) 411.

Atanda Vs. Olarenwaju (1988) 4 NWLR (Pt. 89) 394.

A.T.E. Co. Ltd Vs. Military Governor Ogun (2009) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1163) 26 SC.

Attorney General Cross River State Vs. Attorney General of the Federation (2005) 6 SC (Pt. II) 78 at 89-90.

Attorney General of the Federation Vs. Sode (1990) 1 NWLR 500 at 508.

Auto Import Export Vs. Adebayo (2002) 12 SC (Pt. 1) 158 at 167.

Automatic Telephone & Electric Co. Vs. Federal Military Government (1969) 1 NMLR.

Awoniyi Vs. Aleshinloye(1998) 9 NWLR (Pt. 564) 72.

Ayankoya Vs. Olukoya (1962) 2 S.C.N.J. 292 at 305.

Ayeni Vs. Sowemino (1982) 5 SC 43.

Ayinde Vs. Akanji (1988) 2 NWLR (78) at 614.

Ayorinde Vs. AG Oyo State (1996) 2 SCNJ 198 at 221.

Azeez Vs. State (1986) 2 NWLR (Pt. 23) 541.

B

Babale Vs. Abdulkadir ((1993) 3NWLR (Pt. 281) 254.

Bajoga Vs. Government, Federal Republic of Nigeria (2008) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1067) 85 CA.

Bakare Vs. ACB(1986) 5 SC 48.

Balarabe Musa Vs. Auta Hamza & Ors(1982) 3 NCLR 229.

Balogun Vs. UBA Ltd(1992) 7 SCNJ (Pt. 1) 61 at 75.

Bamaiyi Vs. Attorney General of the Federation & Ors (2001) 7 SC (Pt. 11) 62.

Bank of Ireland Vs. UBN (1998) 7 SCNJ 385.

Bank of the North Ltd. Vs. Intra Bank S.A. (1969) 1 All NLR 88.

Banque Genevoise De Commerce et De Credit CIA Mar Isola Spetsai (1962) 1 All NLR 491.

Barclays Bank Vs. Boulter (1999)1 WLR 1919 at 1923.

Barclays Johnson Vs. Yuill (1980) 3 AER 190 At 195.

Barry Vs. Eric (1998) 8 NWLR (Pt. 562) 412.

Bayam Vs. Agana (2010) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1199) 215 CA.

Bashorun Vs. Chief of Army Staff (1989) 5 NWLR (Pt. 123) 590.

Bata Shoe Co. Vs. Melikan (1956) 1 FCS 100.

Bature Vs. Savannah Bank (1998) 4 NWLR (Pt. 546) 438.

Baxter Vs. France (1895) 1 QB 591.

Bello Vs. Attorney General of Oyo State (1986) 5 NWLR (Pt. 45) 828 at 886.

Bello Vs. Eweka(1981)1 SC 101 at 102.

Bello Vs. Farmers Supply Ltd. (1994) 5 NWLR (Pt. 342) 127.

Beloxxi &Co Ltd V. South trust Bank(2012) 2NWLR (Pt. 1285) 608 (Supra),

Ben Thomas Hotels Ltd. Vs. Sebi Furniture Ltd. (1999) 5 NWLR (Pt. 123) 523.

Bendel Construction Co. Ltd Vs. Anglo Development Co (Nig.) Ltd. (19720 All NLR (Pt. 1) 125.

Bi-Zee Bee Hotels Ltd Vs. Allied Bank of Nigeria Ltd (1999) 8 NWLR (465) 176.

BM Ltd. Vs. Woermann-Line (2009) 13 NWLR (Pt. 1157) 149.

Boldey Vs. INCAR (1997) 7 SCNJ 194 at 199.

Blundell Vs. Rimimer (1971) 1 WLR 123.

Bruce and Odham’s Press Ltd. (1936) 1 All ER 287).

Buhari Vs. Yusuf (2003) 14 NWLR (Pt. 841) 466 at 536.

Bulet International Nig. Ltd. Vs. Adamu (1997) 3 NWLR (Pt. 493) 348.

C

Carrara Marble Co. Ltd. Vs. Bolado Ltd. (1970) NCLR, 561 at 565.

Caribben Trading & Fidelity Corp. Vs. NNPC (1991) 6 NWLR (Pt. 197) 352.

Carlen Vs. University of Jos (1994) 1 SCNJ 72.

CBN Vs. Ahmed (2001) 28 WRN 38.

CBN Vs. Eze Vs. Okolonji (1997) NWLR (Pt. 513) 515.

CBN Vs. Inland Bank Ltd. (1997) 9 NWLR (Pt. 522) 712.

C.C.B. Vs. AG. Anambra State (1992) 8 NWLR (Pt. 261) 558.

Chaffer Vs. Goldmid (1894)1 QB 186.

Charles Obike Vs. legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (2005) All FWLR (Pt. 266) 1176.

Charlie Vs. Gudi(2007)2 NWLR (Pt. 1017) 91 CA.

Chief Atanda & Ors Vs. Olarewaju & Ors (1988) 4 NWLR (Pt. 89) 394

Chief Victor Woluchem & Ors Vs. Chief Semion Gudi & Ors (1981) 5 SC 291.

Chijuka Vs. Maduewesi (2011) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1272) 181

Chime Vs. Ude (1996) 7 SCNJ 81 at 89.

Chinweze Vs. Masi (1989) 1 NWLR (Pt. 97) 253.

Christian Group Ltd. Vs. Oni (2008) 11 NWLR (Pt. 1097) 84 CA.

Coker Vs. Adeyemo (1965) 1 All NLR 120.

Coker Vs. UBA Plc (1997) 2 NWLR (Pt. 486) 226.

Commissioner for Works, Benue State Vs. Devcom Construction Ltd (1988) 3 NWLR (Pt. 83) 407.

Contrast Attah Vs. Nnacho (1965) NMLR 28.

CPC Vs. Nyako (2009) 12 NWLR (Pt. 1156) 435 SC.

Cross River State Newspaper Corporation Vs. Oni & Ors (1995) 1 NWLR (Pt. 371) 270.

D

Dairo Vs. UBN Plc (2007) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1059) 99.

Dantata Vs. Mohammed (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1302) 366 CA.

Dantsoho Vs. Mohammed (2003) 2 SC 42 at 55.

Dike Vs. Nzeka (1986) 4 NWLR (Pt. 34) 144.

Diplock Vs. Hammond (1854) LJ Ch. 550.

Director of SSS Vs. Agbakoba (1999) 3 NWLR (Pt. 595) 425.

Disu Vs. Daniel (1964) 1 ALL NLR 89.

Doukpolagha Vs. George (1992) 4 NWLR (Pt. 236) 444.

Duke of Bedford Vs. Ellis (1901) AC 1 at 8.

Dunlop and Ranken Ltd. Vs. Hendoll Steel Structures Ltd., Pitcher Ltd (Garnishees) (1957) 1 All ER 347.

DPP Vs. Chike Obi (1991) 1 All NLR 458.

DSC Vs. Owner of Aditya Prabha (1991) 3 NWLR (Pt. 179) 369.

Durojaiye Vs. Continental Feeders Nig. Ltd. (2001) 10 NWLR (Pt. 722) 657.

E

Ebo Vs. Anadi (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1301) 69 CA.

Efe Finance Holdings Vs. Osagie & Ors (2000) 5 NWLR (Pt. 658) 536.

Egbe Vs. Alhaji (1990)1 NWLR 546.

Egolum Vs. Obasanjo (1999) 7 NWLR (Pt. 611) 355.

Egonu Vs. Egonu (1978) 11-12 SC 111.

Eguamwense Vs. Amaghizenwen (1993) 9 NWLR (Pt. 315) 1.

Eimskip Ltd Vs. Exquisit Ind. Ltd (2003) 4 NWLR (Pt. 809) 88.

Ejezie Vs. Anuwu (2008) 12 NWLR (PT 1101) 446.

Ekerete Vs. Udo Enwe Eke of Ikot Eyo (1925) 6 NLR 118-119.

Ekeri Vs. Kimisede(1976) 1 NMLR 194.

Ekpanya Vs. Akpan (1989) 2 NWLR (Pt. 101) 86.

Ekpeyong Vs. Nyong (1975) 2 SC 71

Ekpezu Vs. Ndem (1991) 6 NWLR (Pt. 196) 229.

Electrical and Mechanical Construction Co. Ltd Vs. Total Nigeria & Anor(1972) 1 All NLR (Pt. 2) 293.

Emmanuel Vs. Gomez (2009) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1139) 1 CA.

EMI Records Ltd Vs Kudhali (1985) FSR 36.

Emodi Vs. Kwento (1996) 2 SCNJ 134 at 165.

Enagi Vs. Inuwa (1992) 2 NWLR (Pt. 231) 548.

Enugwu Vs. Okefi (2000) 3 NWLR (Pt. 650) 620 at 641 & 642.

E.S. & C.S. Ltd. Vs. N.M.B. Ltd (2005) 7 NWLR (Pt. 924) 215.

Essien Vs. Essien (2009) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1146) 306 CA.

Evans Vs. Bartlan (1937) AC 473 at 480.

Eveson Vs. Sanusi (1984) 4 SC 115 at 136.

Evong Vs. Obono, Obono & Asso. (2012) 6 NWLR Pt. 1296) 338 CA.

Eze Vs. Okolonji (1997) NWLR (Pt. 513) 515.

Ezegbu Vs. F.A.T.B. Ltd (1992) 1 NWLR 698 at 730 CA.

Ezenwosu Vs. Ngonadi (1988) 3 NWLR 163.

Ezeokafor Vs. Ezeilo (1999) 6 SCNJ 209 at 225.

Ezeoke Vs. Nwagbo Chief(1988)1 NWLR 616.

Ezerebo Vs. IGP (2009) 11 NWLR (Pt. 1151) 117 CA.

Ezueh Vs. Ezeweputa (2005) 4 NWLR (Pt. 915) 221.

F

Falobi Vs Falobi (1967) 1 NMLR 169.

Far East Mercantile Vs. Philips (1974) 1 NWLR (Pt. 2) 246 at 252.

Fawehinmi Vs. Akilu(1987) 4 NWLR 797.

Fawehinmi Vs Nigerian Bar Association (No. 2) (1989) 2 NWLR 558 at 595.

FCDA Vs. Naibi (1990) 3 NWLR 270.

Federal Republic of Nigeria Vs. Ifegwu (2003) 15 NWLR (Pt. 842) 113.

Fennani Vs. Saiki (I961-1989) 1 Sharia Law Reports of Nigeria (SCRN).

Finnegan Vs. Cementation Co. Ltd. (1953) QB 688.

FMG Vs. Sanni (1990) 4 NWLR (Pt. 147) 688.

FRN Vs. Abacha (2008) 5 NWLR (Pt. 1081) 634 CA.

FRN Vs. Akubueze (2010) 17 NWLR (Pt. 1223) 525 SC.

G

Gambari Vs. Gambari (1990) 5 NWLR (Pt. 152) 572.

Garba Vs. Dogonyaro (1991) 1 NWLR (Pt. 165) 102 at 111.

George & Ors Vs. Dominion Flour Mills Ltd (1963) 1 All NLR 71 at 72.

Giwa Vs. Nigerian Loan and Mortgage Co. Ltd (1946) 18 NWR 81.

Gold Coast Industrial Corporation Ltd Vs. Salawu (1953) 14 WACA 284.

Gombe Vs. PW Nig. Ltd (1995) 7 SCNJ 19 at 29.

Government, Borno State & Anor(1990) 1 NWLR (Pt. 192) 728.

Government of Gongola Vs. Tukur(1989) 4 NWLR (Pt. 117) 592 at 602.

Government of Imo State Vs. Amuzie (2009) 13 NWLR (Pt. 1157) 34 CA.

Governor Eastern Nigeria Vs. Omelet (1965) 1 All NLR 19.

Governor of Lagos State & Ors Vs. Ojukwu(1986) 1 NWLR (Pt. 18) 621.

Gowon Vs. Ike-Okongwu (2003) 104 LRCN 10.

Grahams & Ors Vs. Esumai (1984) 11 SC 123.

Green Vs. Green (1987) 3 NWLR (Pt. 61) 480; (1987) 7 SCNJ 255.

Gwar Vs. Adole (2003) 3 NWLR (Pt. 808) 516 at 540.

H

Haruna Vs Ladeinde (1987) 4 NWLR (Pt. 67) 941 at 945.

Haruna Vs. Modibo (2004) 16 NWLR (900) 487 565.

Hawad Int’l School Ltd Vs. I. Mima Project Vent. Ltd. (2005) 1 NWLR (Pt. 903) 552.

Hirnor Vs. Yongo (2003) 4 SC (Pt. II) 18.

Highgrade Maritime Ltd Vs. FBM Ltd. (1991) 1 NWLR (Pt. 167) 209.

Housing Corporation Vs. Emekwue (1996) 1 SCNJ 98 at 133.

Hunt Vs. B.P. Exploration Co. (Libya) Ltd. (1980) NZLR 104.

I

Ibeanu Vs. Ogbeide(1998) 9 NSCJ 77 at 86.

Ibiyemi Vs. FBN Plc (2003) 17 NWLR (Pt. 848).

Ibrahim Vs. Emein(1996) 2 NWLR (Pt. 430) 322 at 339.

Ibrahim Vs. INEC (1999) 8 NWLR (Pt 614) 334 at 341.

Ibrahim Vs. Judicial Service Commission (1998) 14 NWLR (Pt. 584)1; (1998) 12 SCNJ 255 at 274.

Ibrahim Vs. Umar (2012) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1300) 507 CA.

Idakwo Vs. Nigerian Army (2004) 2 NWLR (Pt. 857) 249 at 268.

Ifebuzor Vs. Ejezie (1998) 8 NWLR (Pt. 560) 148.

Ifediorah Vs. Umeh (1988) 2 NWLR 5.

Ifezue Vs. Mbnadugba (1984) 5 C 79.

Ige Vs. Farinde (1994) 7 NWLR (Pt. 354) 42 at 70.

Igidi Vs. Igba (1999) 6 SC (Pt. 1) 114.

Igiokwe Vs. Nanna (1940) 17 NLR 5.

Ilodibia Vs. NCC (1997) 7 SCNJ 77.

Imam Lawani Vs. Odulaja (1943) 17 NLR 15.

Inakoju Vs. Adeleke (2007) 4 NWLR (Pt. 1025) 423.

Inland Bank Ltd. (1997) 9 NWLR (Pt. 522) 712.

Ironbor Vs. FMF (2009) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1165) 506 CA.

Iron Products Ltd Vs. SAC (1992) 4 NWLR (Pt. 238) 734.

Iweka Vs. SCOA (2000) 3 SC 21 at 31.

Iyke Med Merchandise Vs. Pfizer Inc. (2001) 10 NWLR (Pt. 722) 540.

Izedonmwen Vs. UBN Plc (2012) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1295) 1 CA.

J

Jack Vs University of Agriculture Makurdi(2004) 1 SC (Pt. II) 100 at 111.

Jadesola Vs. Akinola (1931) 10 NWLR 28.

Jammal Steel Structures Vs. ACB (1973) All NLR (Pt. 1) 222.

John Holt Ltd. Vs. Fajemirokun (1961) All NLR 492.

Joseph Ohai Vs. Akapoemonye (1999) 1 SC 96 at 99.

JVC P.P (UK) LTD V. (2011)4 NWLR (PT 1238) 579

K

Kamba Vs. Bawa (2005) 4 NWLR (Pt. 914) 43.

KASOP Vs. Kofa Trading Co. (1962) 2 SCNJ.

Kaura Vs. UBA Plc (2005) 8 NWLR (Pt. 926) 24.

Kemp Vs. Goldberg (1887) 36 Ch. D. 505.

Kigo (Nigeria) Ltd. Vs. Holman Bros (Nigeria) Ltd. & Anor (1980) 5-7 SC 60.

Knowles Vs. Roberts (1888) 38 Ch. D 263.

Kolawole Vs. Alberto (1989) 1 NWLR (Pt. 98) 382; (1989) 1 NSCC 213.

Korau Vs. Korau (1998) 4 NWLR (Pt. 545) 212.

Kotoye Vs CBN (1989) 2 SCNJ 31.

Kotoye Vs. Saraki(1995) 5 SCNJ 1 at 9.

Kpema Vs. State (1986) NWLR 396.

KSIEC Vs. PDP (2005) 6 NWLR (Pt. 920) 25.

Kumalia Vs. Sheriff (2009) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1146) 420 CA.

Kwara Hotels Ltd Vs. Ishola (2002) 9 NWLR (Pt. 773) 604.

L

Ladunni Vs. Kukoyi & Ors (1972) 1 All NLR (Pt.1) 133.

Lagos Stores Ltd Vs. Pedro St. Anna (1929) 9 NLR 96.

Lajumoke Vs. Doherty (1969) 1 NMLR 281 at 293.

Lasisi Vs. AG Oyo State (1982) 4 SC 1.

Lawal Vs. Dawodu (1972) 1 All NLR (Pt. 2) 270 at 282.

Leedo Presidential Hotel Vs. Bank of the North (1998) 7 SCNJ 23.

Lewis & Peats (NRI) Ltd Vs. Akhimien(1986)2 NWLR (Pt. 24) 589.

London Association of Protection of Trade Vs. Greenland Ltd (1916) 2 AC at 30.

LSDPC Vs. Citymark (West Africa) (1998) 7 SCNJ 138 at 150.

M

Macauley Vs. NAL Merchant Bank (1990) NSCC 433.

Mac Gregor Associates Vs. N.M.B. (1996) 2 SCNJ 81.

Madukolu Vs. Nkemdilim (1962) 1 All NLR (Pt. 4) 589.

Magaji Vs. Matari (2000) 5 SC 46.

Magnasson B. V. Vs. Koiki (1993) 12 SCNJ 114; (1993) 9 NWLR (Pt. 317) 287.

Maigoro Vs. Garba (1999) 7 SC (Pt. III) 11 at 19-20.

Maja & Ors Vs. Johnson (1951) WACA 297.

Makande Vs. Barclays Bank D.C.O. (1962) 2All NLR 104.

Mallam Ado Vs. Hajiya Dije (1984) 5 NCLR 260.

Mang Vs. Ibe (2000) 14 NWLR (Pt. 688) 591.

Markt & Co. Ltd. Vs. Knight Steamship Co. Ltd (1910) 2KB 1021.

Mareva Compania Naviera SA Vs. International Bulk Carriers SA (1980) 1 All E.R. 213.

Martins Vs. Nicannar(1988) 2 NWLR 75.

Mashuwaeng Vs. Abu (2003) 11 NWLR (Pt. 831) 403.

Maximum Insurance Co. Ltd. Vs. Owoniyi (1994) 3 NWLR (Pt. 331) 179.

Menakaya Vs. Menakaya (1996) 9 NWLR (Pt. 427) 256 at 288.

Metal Construction West Africa Ltd. Vs. Aboderin (1998) 6 SCNJ 161.

Miller Vs. Mynn (1859) 28 LJQB 324.

Miscellaneous Offences Tribunal Vs. Okoroafor (2001) 18 NWLR (Pt. 745) 295 at 353.

Mitchell Vs. Lee (1867) LR 2 QB 259.

Mobil Oil Ltd. Vs. Agadaigho(1988) 2 NWLR (Pt. 77) 383.

Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc. Vs. Kena(2001) 15 NWLR (Pt 691) 622.

Mogaji and Ors Vs. Odofin and Ors (1978) SC 91.

Moghalu Vs. Ngige (2005) 4 NWLR (914) 1.

Mohammed Atiyaye Vs. The permanent Secretary Ministry of Local Government, borno State & Anor(1990) 1 NWLR (Pt. 192) 728.

Mohammed Vs. Olawunmi (1992) NWLR (Pt. 133) 458 at 480.

Mohammed Vs. UBA (1976) 2 FNR 21.

Mokelu Vs. Federal Commissioner for Housing and Land (1976) 3 SC 35.

Moore Vs. Lambeth Country Court Registrar (1970) (No. 2) 1 QB 560.

Mordi Vs. Kwentoh (1996) 2 NWLR (Pt. 433) 656 at 660.

Morgan and Ors Vs. W.A. Automobile & Engr. Co. Ltd (1971) 1 NMLR.

Mosheshe General Merchants Ltd Vs. Nigeria Steel Products Ltd (1987) 1 NWLR 110.

Mucas Hospital Ltd. Vs. Fasuyi (2004) 8 NWLR (Pt. 874) 67.

Mudiaga Vs. INEC (2003) 5 NWLR (812) 70 at 76.

N

Nabhan Vs. Nabhan (1967) 1 All NLR 47 at 56; (1967) NMLR 130.

Nalsa Team Association Ltd Vs. NNPC (1991) 11 SCNJ 51.

National Assembly Vs. C.C.I. Co. Ltd (2008) 5 NWLR (Pt. 1081) 519 CA.

National Bank Vs. Guthrie (1993) 4 SCNJ 1 at 17.

National Bank Vs. Weide & Co. (1996) 9-10 SCNJ 147 at 159.

National Bank of Nigeria Ltd. Vs. Shoyoye (1977) 5 SC 181.

National Union of Electricity Employees Vs. Bureau of Public Enterprises (2010) 2-3 MJSC 48.

NAU Awka Vs. Nweke (2008) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1069) 504 CA.

NBA Vs. Fawehinmi(1986) 2 NWLR 224.

NBN Ltd. Vs. Savol West Africa Ltd. (1994) 3 NWLR (Pt. 333) 435.

NDIC Vs. Okem Enterprises Ltd. (2004) 4 SC (Part 11) 97.

Ndulue Vs. Onyekwulunne (2002) 5 SC (Pt. II) 124 at 136.

NEC Vs. NRC (1993) 1 NWLR (Pt. 267) 120 at 130-131.

NEPA Vs. Adegbenro(2002) 12 SC (Pt. II) 119 at 132.

Newbreed Press Ltd. Vs. Jaiyesin (2000) 6 NWLR (Pt. 662) 561.

New Nigeria Newspaper Vs. Otteh (1992) 4 NWLR (Pt. 237) 626 at 633.

Newspapers Corporation V. Oni (1995) 1 SCNJ 218 at 239-240.

Ngoh Vs. Nodke (1960) 5 FSC 90.

NIC Vs. Aminu (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1302) 330 CA

Nig. Cement Co. Vs. NRC (1992) 1 NWLR 747 at 760.

Nigeria Nurses Association Vs. AG Federation (1981) 11-12 SC 1.

Nigeria Okoye Vs. NCFC Ltd. (1991) 6 NWLR (Pt. 199) 501 at 522.

Nigerian Produce marketing Board Vs. Adewunmi (1972)1 All NLR (Pt. 2) 433.

NIPC Vs. Thompson Organization (1969) NMLR 99.

Nipol Vs. Bioku Investment & Property Co. Ltd (1992) 3 NWLR (Pt.232) 727.

NIPOST Vs. I.E. Co. Ltd. (2006) NWLR (Pt. 983) 435.

NITEL Plc Vs. I.C.I.C. (Directory Publishers) Ltd. (2009) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1167) 356 CA.

Njemanze Vs. Shell BP Portharcourt and Olu of Warri Vs. Essi(1958) 3 FSC 96.

Nnadika Vs. Ejire (1994) 1 NWLR (Pt. 320) 295.

Nnamani Vs. Nnaji (1999) 7 NWLR (Pt. 610) 313.

Novaritis Pharma Serv. Inc. Vs. Swisso (Nig.) Ltd (2004) 2 NWLR (Pt. 856) 28.

NPA Vs. Panalpina World Transport (Nig.) Ltd. (1973) 8 NSCC 282.

Ntuks Vs. NPA (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1301) 37 CA.

Nwadike Vs. Ibekwe (1987) 7 SC 149.

Nwagu Vs. Chima (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1303) 596 CA.

Nwankpa Vs. Ewulu (1995) 7 SCNJ 197.

Nwaoboshi Vs. Military Administrator of Delta State (2003) 5 SC 120 at 125.

Nwawuba Vs. Enemuo (1988)2 NWLR 581.

Nwekeson Vs. Onuigbo(1991) 3 NWLR (Pt. 178)125.

Nwosu Vs. Imo State Environmental Sanitation Authority (1990) 2 NWLR (pt. 135) 688.

Nwonye V. Road Construction Ltd. (1966) NMLR 254.

Nwora Vs. Nwabueze (2011) 17 NWLR (Pt. 1277) 699 SC.

Nyame Vs. FRN (2010) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1193) 344 SC.

O

Obasanjo Vs. Babafemi (2000) 15 NWLR (Pt. 689) 1.

Obeya Memorial Hospital Vs. AG Federation (1987) 7 SCNJ 42.

Obi Vs. Ngwo Market Community (2001) 2 NWLR (Pt. 696) 113 at 127.

Obi Vs. Obi (2004) 5 NWLR (Pt. 867) 647.

Obijulu Vs. Ozims(1985) 2 NWLR (Pt. 6) 167.

Obiode Vs. Orewere (1982) 1-2 SC 170 at 175.

Obiyan Vs. Governor of Mid-Western State & Ors (1972) NSCC 209 at 295-296.

Ocean Steamship Vs. Sotuminu (1987) 4 NWLR 996.

Odofin Vs. Agu (1992) 3 NWLR (Pt. 229) 350

Odonigi Vs. Oyeleke (2001) 2 SC 194 at 210.

Odu Vs. John Holt (1950) 19 NLR 127.

Oduka Vs. Kasalu (1968) NMLR 28.

Odum Vs. Uganden (2009) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1146) 281 CA.

Odun Vs. Chinwo (1978) 6-7 SC 251.

Ogbechie Vs. Onochie (1988) 1 NSCC 211 at 230.

Ogbefor Vs, Danjuma (2003) 15 NWLR (Pt. 843) 403 at 432.

Ogiemien Vs. Ogiemien (1967) NMLR 245.

Ogolo Vs. Fubara (2003) 5 SC 141 at 158.

Ogunlana Vs. Dada (2010) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1176) 534 CA

Ogun State Government Vs. Dalami Nigeria Limited & Anor (2003) 7 NWLR (Pt. 878) 72 at 102.

Ogunremi Vs. Dada (1962) 1 All NLR 663.

Ojengbede Vs. Esan (2001) 12 SC (Pt. II) 1.

Ojo Vs. Abogunrin (1989) 5 NWLR (Pt. 120) 162 at 179.

Ojora Vs. Odunsi (1964) 1 All NLR 55 at 60.

Ojugbue Vs. Nnubia (1972) 1 All NLR (Pt. 2) 226.

Okafor Vs. ACB Ltd (1975) 9 NSCC 276.

Okafor Vs. Okonkwo (2002) NWLR (Pt. 796) 262.

Okambah Ltd. Vs. Sule (1990) 11 SCNJ 1.

Okangi Vs. Fatoba (2012) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1299) 260 CA

Okeahialam Vs. Nwamara (2003) 12 NWLR (Pt. 835) 597.

Okechukwu and Sons Vs. Ndah (1967) NMLR 368 at 371.

Okeke Vs. President and Members Customary Court (2001) 11 NWLR (Pt. 725) 507.

Okereke Vs. Nwankwo (2003) 4 SC (Pt. I) 16 at 28.

Oketie Vs. Olughor (1995) 5 SCNJ 217 at 226.

Okhae Vs. Governor Bendel State (1990) 4 NWLR (Pt. 144) 327 at 370-371.

Okhuarobo Vs. Aigbe (2002) 9 NWLR (Pt. 771) 40 SC.

Okocha Vs. INEC (2009) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1140) 295 CA.

Okoebor Vs. Police Council (1998) 9 NWLR (Pt. 566) 534.

Okomu Oil Palm Co. Ltd Vs. Iserhienrhien (2001) 3 SCNJ 79.

Okonkwo Vs. Mode (2002) 14 NWLR (Pt. 788) 588.

Okoya Vs. Santilli (1990) NWLR (172).

Okoye Vs. NCFC Ltd. (1991) 6 NWLR (Pt. 199) 501 at 522.

Okpala & Ors Vs. Ibeme & Ors (1989) 1 NSCC 567 at 577.

Okpanubi Vs. SGBN Ltd. (1998) 7 NWLR (Pt. 559) 537.

Olagbemiro Vs. Ajagungbade (1990) 5 SCNJ 1 at 17.

Olaniyi Vs. Elero (2007) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1037) 517 C.A.

Olataha Vs. Asin (1999) 6 NWLR (Pt. 601) 32.

Olatunde Vs. Abidogun (2001) 12 SC (Pt. I) 123 at 131.

Olatunde Vs. Obafemi Awolowo University (1998) 4 SCNJ 59 at 68.

Olawoyin Vs. Attorney General of Northern Nigeria (1960) FSC 290; (1961) All NLR 269.

Olayinka Vs. Elusanmi (1971) NMLR 277.

Olorunkunle Vs. Adigun (2012) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1297) 407 CA.

Olowokere Vs. A.N.N. ((1993) 5 NWLR (Pt. 295) P. 583.

Olufosoye & Ors Vs. Olorunfemi (1989) 1 at 29.

Olumuyiwa Sotuminu Vs. Ocean Steamship Nig. Ltd (1992) 5 SCNJ 1.

Olurotimi Vs. Ige (1993) 10 SCNJ 1.

Omotunde Vs. Omotunde(2001) 9 NWLR (Pt. 718) 252.

Onah Vs. Okom (2012) 8 NWLR (Pt. 1301) 169 CA.

Onifade Vs. Olayiwola (1990) 7 NWLR 130 at 157.

Onuorah Vs. Kaduna Refinning Co. Ltd (2005) 6 NWLR (921) 393.

Onwuama Vs. Ezeokoli (2002) 2 SC (Pt. II) 76 at 82-83.

Onwuanumkpe Vs. Onwuanumkpe (1993) 8 NWLR (Pt. 310) 186.

Onwugbufor Vs Okoye(1996) 1 SCNJ 1.

Onyebuchi Vs. INEC (2002) 8 NWLR (Pt. 769) 47.

Onyekwuleje Vs. Animashaun (1996) 3 NWLR (Pt. 450) 564.

Onyemelukwe Vs. L-D Alberto & Co Ltd. (2001) FWLR (Pt. 98) 2166 at 2183.

Onyenweuzor Vs. Opusunju (2002) 6 NWLR (Pt. 762) 72.

Oredoyin Vs. Arowolo(1989) 4 NWLR (Pt. 114) 172 at 211.

Orji Vs. PDP (2009) 14 NWLR (Pt. 1161) 310 CA.

Orugba Vs. Una (2002) 9-10 SC 61.

Osayi Vs. Izozo (1969) 1 All NLR 155.

Osondu Vs. Solel Boneh (Nig.) Ltd. (2000) 3 SC 429 at 461.

Owena Bank Ltd. Vs. NSE (1997) 8 NWLR (Pt. 515) 1.

Owoniboys Technical Services Ltd. Vs. John Holt Ltd. (1991) 6 NWLR (Pt. 199) 550.

Owoyemi Vs. Adekoya(2003) NWLR (Pt. 852) 317.

Oyedeji Akanbi (Mogaji) & Ors Vs. Okunola Ishola Fabunmi & Anor (1986) 2 SC 431.

Oyelami Vs. Military Administrator Osun State (1999) 8 NWLR (Pt. 613) 45.

Oyeniran Vs. Egbetola(1997) 5 NWLR (504) 122.

P

Pam Vs. Gom (2000) 1 SC 56.

PBNL Vs. FBN (2000)1 SC 71 at 80.

PDP Vs. INEC (2012) 7 NWLR ((Pt. 1300) 507 CA.

Peenok Ltd Vs. Hotel Presidential Ltd. (1982) 12 SC 1 at 103.

Phoebus Economides Vs. S. Thomopulous and Co. Ltd. 1956) 1 FSC 7.

Popoola Vs. Babatunde (2012) 7 NWLR (Pt. 1129) 302 CA.

R

R. Vs. District Officer for Kutia People Ex Parte Eti Atem (1961) All NLR 51 at 56.

R. Vs. Wandsworth Country Court ex. P. London Borough of Wandsworth (1975) 2 All ER 390.

Rabiu Vs. State (1980) 8-11 SC 130 at 175-176.

Rankine Vs. Garton Sons & Co. Ltd (1979) 2 All ER 1185.

Re: Overseas Aviation Engineering (GB) Ltd (1963) Ch. 24 at 39 & 40.

Re Yar’ Adua (2011) 17 NWLR (Pt. 1277) 567 SC.

S

Salako Vs. Dosunmu (1997) 7 SCNJ 278.

Salami Vs. Muhammed (2000) 6 SC (Pt. II) 37 at 42.

Salihu Vs. Ministry of Defence (2009) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1123) 548 CA.

Sanni Vs. Ademiluyi (2003) 1 SC (Pt. 1) 77 at 91.

Sanusi Vs. Ayoola (1992) 11-12 SCNJ (Pt. 2) 142 at 156.

S.A.P. (Nig.) Ltd. Vs. CBN (2004) 15 NWLR (Pt. 897) 665.

Saraki and Anor Vs. Kotoye(1992) 9 NWLR (Pt. 264) 156.

Savage Vs. Uwechia (1972) 1 All NLR (Pt. 1) 251.

Savannah Bank Vs. Pan Atlantic Shipping (1987) 1 SCNJ 88.

Shell Petroleum Development Co. of Nig. Ltd. Vs. Tiebo VII (2005) 3-4 SC 137 at 158.

Shittu Vs. Ligali(1941) 16 NLR 21.

Shona-Jason Ltd. Vs. Omega Air Ltd. (2006) 1 NWLR (Pt. 960) 1 CA.

Shugaba Vs. UBN Plc. (1999) NWLR (Pt. 627) 459.

Simpton (Nig.) Ltd Vs. Pamil Indutries Ltd. (2001) 8 NWLR (Pt. 714) 51.

Skenconsult (Nig.) & Anor Vs. Godwin Sekondy Ukey (1981) 1 SC 6 at 36.

Slade & Kempton Vs. Kayman (1969) All ER 786.

Societe Generale Bank of Nigeria Ltd. Vs. Afekoro & Ors (1999) 7 SC (Pt. III) 95.

Sodipo Vs. Lemminkaenem (1986) 1 NWLR 220.

Sol Fond Ltd. Vs. Elerewe (1996) 8 NWLR (Pt. 465) 248.

Sonuga & Ors Vs. Anadein & Ors (1967) NMLR 77.

Soy Agencies Vs. Melalum Ltd (1991) 3 NWLR 35.

SPDC (Nig.) Ltd. Vs. Katad (Nig.) Ltd. (2006) 1 NWLR (Pt. 960) 198 CA.

SPDC (Nig.) Ltd. Vs. XM Fed. Ltd. (2006) 16 NWLR (Pt.1004) 189.

SPDCN Ltd. Lalibo (2009) 14 NWLR (Pt. 1162) 564 CA.

S.S. (Nig.) Ltd. Vs. Oshie (2009) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1166) 158 CA.

State Vs. Squad Leader Olatunji (2002) 2-3 SC 85 at 95.

State Vs. Usman (2005) 1 NWLR (906) 80 at 98-100.

Stephen Nweke & Anor Vs. Eze Orji (1989) 2 NWLR (Pt. 104) 484.

Sun Insurance Office Ltd. Ojemuyiwa (1965) 1 All NLR 1.

T

Talbot Vs. Blendell (1908) 2 KB 114.

The Nigeria Air Force Vs. Wing Commander Shekete (2002) 12 SC (Pt. 11) 52.

Tiza Vs. Begha (1967) 1 All NLR 47.

Tiza Vs. Begha (2005) 5 SC (Pt. II) 11

Thomas Vs. Local Government Service Board (1965) NMLR 310.

Thomas Vs. Olufosoye (1986) 1 NWLR 664 at 683.

Thorp Vs. Holdsworth(1876)3 Ch. D 637 at 639.

Toriola Vs. Arewa 12 WACA 504.

Toriola Vs. Williams (1982) 7 SC 27.

Trade Bank Plc Vs. Banilux (Nig.) Ltd (2003) 5 SC 1.

Trower and Sons Ltd. Vs. Repstein (1944) AC 254 at 263.

Tukur Vs. Government of Gongola State (1989) 20 NSCC (Pt. III) 225 at 258.

U

UAC Technical Anglo Vs. Canadian Cement Ltd. (1996) NMLR 349.

UBA Vs. Omololu (1992) 5 NWLR (Pt. 241) 312.

UBN Ltd. Vs. Oki (1999) NWLR (Pt. 614) 244 at 252.

UBN Ltd. Vs. Penny-Mart Ltd. (1992) 2 NWLR (Pt. 240) 228 at 244.

UBN Plc Vs. Ayodare and Sons Ltd (2007) 13 NWLR (Pt. 1052) 567 SC.

Uchendu Vs. Ogboni(1999) 4 SCNJ 64.

Uduko Vs Government Ebonyi State (2009) 9 NWLR (Pt. 1147) 439 SC

Ugochukwu Vs. CCB (Nig.) Ltd (1996) 7 SCNJ 22.

Ukeagu Vs Ugoji(1991) 6 NWLR (Pt. 196) 127 at 159.

Ume & Ors Vs. Ezechi & Ors (1962) 1 All NLR 16.

Unachukwu Vs. Ajuzie (2009) 4 NWLR (Pt.1131) 336 CA.

Unakalamba Vs. Cop (1985) 3 FSC.

Unibiz (Nig.) Ltd Vs. C.B.C.L. Ltd (2003) 6 NWLR (Pt. 816) 402 at 433.

Uniform Ind. Ltd. Vs. Oceanic Bank International (Nig.) Ltd. (2005) 3 NWLR (Pt.911) 83.

UNILAG Vs. Aigoro(1991) 3 NWLR (Pt. 179) 376.

Union Bank Vs. Odusote Bookstore (1994) 3 SCNJ 1 at 22-23.

University of Abuja Vs. Ologe(1996) 4 NWLR (445) 706.

University of Lagos & Ors Vs. C.I.O. Olaniyan & Ors (1985) 1 SC 285 at 232; (1985) 1 NWLR (Pt. 1) 156.

7-Up Bottling Co. Vs. Abiola and Sons Ltd. (1989) 4 NWLR 229 at 238.

Usiobaifo Vs. Usiobaifo (2005(3 NWLR (Pt. 913) 665.

Usman Vs. Kareem (1995) 2 NWLR (379) 541 at 553.

Usman Vs. Umaru ((1992) 7 NWLR (Pt. 254) 377.

UTB Ltd Vs. Dolmetsch Pharm (Nig.) Ltd (2007) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1061) 520.

UTC Vs. Pamotei (1989) 3 SCNJ 79.

Utih Vs. Onoyivwe (1999) 1 NWLR (Pt 166) at 206.

V

Vaswani Trading Co. Vs. Savalakh(1972) All NLR 92; (1972) 12 SC 77.

Veritas Insurance Co. Ltd. Vs. Citi Trust Investment Ltd (1993) 13 NWLR (Pt. 281) 349.

W

Watson Vs. Murray & Co. (1955) 2 QB 1.

Western Steel Works Vs. Iron and Steel Workers Union (1987) 1 NWLR (Pt. 49) 284 at 303.

Widgery Vs. Tepper (1877) 6 Ch. D 364.

Willcock Vs. Terrel (1878) 3 Ex. D 323.

Williams Vs. Wilcox (1938) A & E 314 at 331.

Y

Yahaha Vs. Aminu(2004) 7 NWLR (Pt. 871) 159 at 181.

Yakubu Vs. Kogi State & Co. (1995) 8 NWLR (414) 386.

Yaro Vs. Arewa Construction Ltd (1998) 6 SCNJ 1.

Yusuf Vs. Adegoke (2007) 11 NWLR (Pt. 1045) 332 SC.

Z

Zaidan V. Mohassen (1973) 11 SC 21.

Zakari Vs. IGP (2000) 8 NLWR (670) 666.

Zangina Vs. Commisioner of Works, Borno State (2001) 9 NWLR (Pt. 718) 382.

LIST OF STATUTES

1. Abuja District Court Act, Cap. 495, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (Abuja) 1990

2. Arbitration and Conciliation Act Cap 19 Laws of the federation of Nigeria 1990

3. Area Court Law of Kano State

4. Companies and Allied Matters of Act Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

5. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1979

6. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Third Alteration Act 2011)

7. Constitution (Suspension and Modification) Act 1993 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004

8. Court of Appeal Rules 2002

9. Customary Court Law Cap 38 Laws of Anambra State 1991.

10. Customary Court Law of Lagos State 2003

11. Customary Court Law of Ogun State

12. Customary Court Law of Oyo State 1980

13. District Court Rules Cap 495 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

14. Electoral Act 2011

15. Evidence Act, Cap E.14 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004

16. Federal Capital Territory Abuja (Appeal from Area Court) Act Cap 127 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

17. Federal Capital Territory Act Cap 128 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

18. Federal High Court Act 1991

19. Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2004

20. Federal Revenue Court Act 1973

21. Foreign Judgments (Reciprocal Enforcements) Act No. 31 1960

22. High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (Civil Procedure) Rules 2004

23. High Court of Lagos Law Cap.H3 Laws of Lagos State, 2003

24. High Court of Lagos State (Civil Procedure) Rules 2004

25. Investment and Securities Act, 2007

26. Judgment (Enforcement) Rules Cap 407 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

27. Land Use Act 1978 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

28. Legal Practitioners Act, Cap 207 Laws of the federation 1990 (as Amended)

29. Limitation Act Abuja

30. Limitation Law of Lagos State

31. Magistrate Court Law of Lagos State Cap. M1, Laws of Lagos State 2003

32. Magistrate Court of Court Rules of Lagos State

33. National Boundary Commission Act Cap 238 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990

34. National Industrial Court Act, 2006

35. Passport (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Cap P1 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004

36. Personal Income Tax Act Cap P8 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004

37. Petition of Rights Act Cap 149 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1958

38. Public Land Acquisition Act 1958 CAP167 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria

39. Public Officers Protection Act

40. Regional Courts (Federal Jurisdiction) Act 1958

41. Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises Law of Lagos State

42. Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2007

43. Sharia Courts Law No. 5 of Zamfara State 1999

44. Sheriff and Civil Processes Act, Cap. S6, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004

45. Supreme Court Act S15 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004

46. Supreme Court (Additional Original Jurisdiction) Act2002 Cap S16 Laws of the federation of Nigeria 2004

47. Supreme Court (Amendment) Rules 1999

48. Trade Dispute Act 1976 Cap 432 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990.

49. Uniform Procedure Rules

ACRONYMS

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION TO CIVIL LITIGATION

Meaning and Objectives of Civil Litigation

The study of Civil Litigation otherwise known as civil procedure underscores the very foundation for Civil Legal practice in all ramifications. It sets the stage and standard for legal practice in civil cases, establishes the framework, spells the borders and indeed identifies the modus for which litigants and courts must follow to establish their cases before a Court of Law to arrive at a just conclusion respectively. As an integral part of court process, it deals with the laws, rules, practice and procedure adapted to guide and regulate the conduct of civil litigation and proceedings in the court of law.

There is no statutory or judicial definition for the subject of civil litigation. However some authors have made significant attempts to shed some light in this regard. According to Lewis, civil procedure deals with the rules of procedure that apply in actions at the courts with respect to civil matters.¹

Fidelis Nwadialo succinctly summarized the meaning of civil procedure in the following words:

…The body of rules that regulate the conduct of civil proceedings. It lays down the methods whereby such proceedings are commenced, the steps that are taken at any particular stage thereof and how such steps are to be taken. It also provides for the modes of enforcing the resultant judgment.²

The extant provision made pursuant to the constitutional powers vested on the judicial arm of government is to interpret the law as it applies to all matters between persons, or between government or authority and to any person in the country, and to all actions and proceedings related thereto, for the determination of any question or issue as pertains the civil rights and obligation of that person.³

It is pertinent to mention that the observance and enforcement of procedure assures the outcome of litigation without prejudice to the content of the suit. By the foregoing, it is implied that the study of Civil Procedure sets out the methods and place of commencing proceedings in a civil action, the various intervention at all stages of the proceeding, the enforcement of the judgment of the Court and possible appeals from the judgment of the Courts below.

Civil Procedure is said to belong to the class of adjectival Laws as opposed to substantive Law. The former is made up of the procedure to be followed in attaining the rights, duties and liabilities of individuals in Civil Procedure whilst the latter is concerned with the definition of these rights, duties and liabilities. It is with the former we are here concerned.

The Abuja Civil Procedure Rules clearly spelt out the objective of court procedure thus:

The aim of the rules of Court is focused at providing orderly as well as expeditious means of enforcing claim in Court and the settlement of disputes. Modern Civil Procedure rules must therefore be made to improve access to justice, reduce time and cost to litigation made less complex and more compliant with present day means of communication.⁴

It goes without saying that Civil Procedure remains at the heart of every effective judicial system. Where the rules are efficacious, the results of litigation will obviously be refined and where procedure is unwieldy and cumbersome, the outcome of adjudication will be delayed, thereby delaying justice in consequence. It follows therefore that rules of Court must be dynamic, functional and not technical. Where it is technical, the rules tend to shift the battleground from facts to procedure thereby defeating the aim of justice.⁵ In Afolabi Vs. Adekunle⁶ the Supreme Court observed per Aniogolu JSC that

While recognizing that the rules of Court must be followed by parties to a suit, it is perhaps necessary to emphasize that justice is not a fencing game in which parties engage themselves in an exercise of outsmarting each other in a whirling technicalities to the detriment of the determination of the