TORT LAW — Defamation — Damages — Social Standing of Plaintiff as Relevant Factor
Principle Statement
Other factors which should be considered in assessing damages in libel cases are social standing of the plaintiff and the rate of inflation which has adversely affected the value of the national currency.
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per Fabiyi, JSC, in Oduwole & Ors v. West (2010) NLC-123-173-2003(SC) at p. 9; Paras A-B.
"Other factors which should be considered in assessing damages in libel cases are social standing of the plaintiff and the rate of inflation which has adversely affected the value of the national currency."
Explanation / Scope
This principle establishes that social standing of the plaintiff and inflation are relevant factors in assessing libel damages. The principle applies in libel claims. It ensures that damages reflect the plaintiff’s standing. The principle reflects that damage to reputation varies. It prevents awards that do not account for inflation. The court must consider these factors. The principle provides guidance on factors in assessing libel damages.
