EVIDENCE LAW ā Public Documents ā Proof by Certified Copy ā Presumption of Genuineness
Principle Statement
The usual method of proving a public document is by the production of a certified copy of it. Once it is certified as such copy, it is unnecessary to call a witness to verify it.
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per Oguntade, JSC, in Orlu v. Gogo-Abite (2010) NLC-123-234-2002(SC) at pp. 21ā22; Paras DāA.
"The usual method of proving a public document is by the production of a certified copy of it. Once it is certified as such copy, it is unnecessary to call a witness to verify it."
Explanation / Scope
This principle establishes that certified copies of public documents prove themselves without the need for a witness to verify them. The principle applies where public documents are tendered. It ensures that public documents are easily proved. The principle reflects the evidentiary rule on public documents. It prevents unnecessary calling of witnesses. The court must accept certified copies. The principle provides guidance on proving public documents.
