CIVIL PROCEDURE — Res Judicata — Principle of Finality of Litigation
Ratio Decidendi
Per Tobi, JSC, in Ntuks & Ors v. NPA (2007) NLC-123-190-2003(SC) at p. 16; Paras A–E:
"The rule is that a final judgment, rendered by a court of competent jurisdiction on the merits is conclusive as to the rights of the parties and their privies, and, as to them, constitutes an absolute bar to a subsequent action involving the same claim, demand or cause of action."
Explanation / Scope
The principle embodies the policy of finality in litigation, which is the bedrock of the doctrine of res judicata. Once a court of competent jurisdiction has adjudicated on the merits and delivered a final judgment, the matter is conclusively determined. The judgment operates as an absolute bar to any subsequent action between the same parties or their privies on the same cause of action. The rule applies regardless of whether the earlier judgment was correct or erroneous, as the remedy for error is appeal, not re-litigation. The principle serves the public interest by ensuring that disputes are finally resolved and that parties do not face indefinite litigation. It promotes certainty, stability, and respect for judicial decisions.