CRIMINAL LAW — Evidence of Single Witness — Sufficiency for Conviction — Murder Charge
Principle Statement
A court can and is entitled to act on the evidence of one single witness if the witness is believed given all the circumstances of the case. A single credible witness, can establish a case beyond reasonable doubt unless where the law required corroboration.
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per OGBUAGU, J.S.C., in Nkebisi & Anor v. State (2010) NLC-123-395-2002(SC) at p. 11; Paras A–B.
"A court can and is entitled to act on the evidence of one single witness if the witness is believed given all the circumstances of the case. A single credible witness, can establish a case beyond reasonable doubt unless where the law required corroboration."
Explanation / Scope
This principle establishes that a conviction can be based on the evidence of a single credible witness, unless corroboration is legally required. The principle applies in criminal trials. It ensures that the court can rely on credible evidence. The principle reflects that the number of witnesses is not the test. It prevents acquittal based solely on the number of witnesses. The court must assess credibility. The principle provides guidance on the sufficiency of single witness evidence.
