CONSTITUTIONAL LAW — Interpretation — Marginal Notes as Guide to Legislative Intention
Ratio Decidendi
Per Muntaka-Coomassie, JSC, in Osun State Independent Electoral Commission v. Action Congress (2010) NLC-2652009(SC) at p. 28, paras. C–D:
"The marginal note to sections is a good guide to knowing the intention of the law makers. Marginal notes are useful in considering the purpose of a section and the mischief at which it is aimed."
Explanation / Scope
his principle establishes that marginal notes are a useful guide to legislative intention and the purpose of a section. The principle applies in statutory interpretation. It ensures that marginal notes are considered in construing provisions. The principle reflects that marginal notes aid interpretation. It helps courts understand the mischief a section addresses. The court may use marginal notes as an interpretive aid. The principle provides guidance on statutory interpretation.