CONSTITUTIONAL LAW — Constitutional Interpretation — Clear and Unambiguous Constitutional Provisions Must Be Given Their Plain and Ordinary Meaning
Principle Statement
In interpreting the provision of the Constitution, the language where clear and unambiguous must be given its plain evident meaning.
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per Mohammed, JSC, in Ojukwu v. Obasanjo & Ors (2004) NLC-1992003(SC) at pp. 8–9; Paras E–A.
"In interpreting the provision of the Constitution the language of the Constitution where clear and unambiguous must be given its plain evident meaning."
Explanation / Scope
Clear constitutional language must be given its plain meaning. The principle applies to constitutional interpretation. The court cannot depart from the clear words. The rule respects the framers’ intent. The court will not engage in creative interpretation. The principle is fundamental.
