CONTRACT LAW — Formation of Contract — Offer — Prescribed Method of Acceptance
Ratio Decidendi
Per Fabiyi, JSC, in Bilante Int'l Ltd v. NDIC (2011) NLC-123-177-1996(SC) at p. 8; Paras B—C:
"Where an offer prescribes a method by which acceptance of his offer is to be communicated to him, that method shall be adopted by the offeree, and acceptance which fails to comply with such requirement shall be ineffective."
Explanation / Scope
This principle establishes that where an offer prescribes a method of acceptance, that method must be adopted, and acceptance failing to comply is ineffective. The principle applies in contract formation. It ensures that prescribed methods are followed. The principle reflects the requirement for compliance. It prevents ineffective acceptance. The court must require compliance. The principle provides guidance on acceptance.