Ratio Decidendi

Per Adekeye, JSC, in Oyegun v. Nzeribe (2010) NLC-123-253-2002(SC) at p. 11; Paras A–B:

"It is trite that courts would not visit the blunders, mistake and inadvertence of counsel on the litigant or penalize a litigant for the mistake of the Registry."

Explanation / Scope

This principle establishes that courts should not visit counsel’s blunders on the litigant or penalize a litigant for Registry mistakes. The principle applies where counsel or Registry errors occur. It ensures that litigants are not unfairly punished. The principle reflects the need for substantial justice. It prevents harsh consequences for procedural errors. The court must consider the substance. The principle provides guidance on the effect of counsel’s mistakes.


Cases Applying This Principle