LEGAL PRINCIPLE: ADMINISTRATIVE LAW – Statutory Powers – Ultra Vires Acts – Public Body Exceeding Statutory Powers Renders Action Invalid
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
The appellant purported to exercise power which it has not got. Although the lower court misunderstood the essence of Exhibit 'B' by which that power was exercised, it was right in declaring it invalid and allowing the appeal against the compulsory retirement of the respondent.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Uwaifo, JSC, in Psychiatric Hospital Management Board v. Ejitagha (2000) NLC-471995(SC) at p. 6; Paras A–B.
"The appellant purported to exercise power which it has not got. Although the lower court misunderstood the essence of Exhibit 'B' by which that power was exercised, it was right in declaring it invalid and allowing the appeal against the compulsory retirement of the respondent."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
A public body acting beyond its statutory powers (ultra vires) renders its action invalid. Even if the lower court misunderstood the basis, the correct result—invalidity—stands. The court cannot validate actions taken without legal authority. Ultra vires acts are void ab initio, regardless of good intentions. The body must act within the four corners of its enabling statute. Any action exceeding granted power is a nullity. This principle protects individuals from arbitrary administrative action and maintains the rule of law. Public bodies have only delegated powers; exceeding them invalidates their acts.