LEGAL PRINCIPLE: APPELLATE PRACTICE — Grounds of Appeal — Proliferation — Quality over Quantity
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
Appeals are not won on the number of grounds or issues. They are won on the quality of the content of grounds of appeal and issues.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Tobi, JSC, in Obioha v. Nigerian Postal Services Ltd & Ors (2003) NLC-871999(SC) at pp. 13–14; Paras D–A.
"Appeals are not won on large number or quantity of grounds of appeal and issues. On the contrary, appeals are won on the quality of the content of grounds of appeal and issues."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
Quality of grounds, not quantity, determines success on appeal. The principle applies to appellate practice. Proliferation of grounds is discouraged. The rule promotes focused advocacy. The appellant should raise only substantial grounds. The principle is well-established.