LEGAL PRINCIPLE: DAMAGES AND REMEDIES — Special Damages — Requirement of Strict Proof
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
The special damages claimed by the respondents were meticulously pleaded and strictly proved as required by law.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Iguh, JSC, in Provost Lagos State College of Education & Ors v. Edun & Ors (2004) NLC-481999(SC) at p. 12; Para A.
"The special damages claimed by the respondents were meticulously pleaded and strictly proved as required by law."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
Special damages must be meticulously pleaded and strictly proved. General averments or approximate figures are insufficient. The principle applies to damages in civil proceedings. The rule prevents award of special damages without precise evidence. Each item of special damage requires specific proof. The claimant cannot rely on mere estimates or speculation.
