Ratio Decidendi

Per I. F. Ogbuagu, JSC, in Ibuluya & Ors v. Dikibo & Ors (2010) NLC-1492001(SC) at p. 20; Paras D-E:

"The paramount consideration for the Appellate Court is whether the decision is right and not necessarily whether the reasons are right."

Explanation / Scope

This principle establishes that an appellate court focuses on the correctness of the decision, not the reasons. Even if the reasons are wrong, the decision will stand if it is correct. The principle applies in appellate review. It ensures that appeals are decided on substance. The principle reflects that the decision, not the reasoning, is what matters. It prevents reversal based on defective reasoning alone. The court must determine if the decision is correct. The principle provides guidance on the focus of appellate review.


Cases Applying This Principle