LEGAL PRINCIPLE: APPELLATE PRACTICE — Grounds of Appeal — Vagueness — Definition of Vague Ground
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
A ground of appeal is vague when it is couched in a manner that does not provide an explicit standard for being understood, when the complaint is not defined in relation to the subject, not particularised, or the particulars are clearly irrelevant.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Uwaifo, JSC, in CBN & Anor v. Okojie & Ors (2002) NLC-2212001(SC) at p. 8; Paras A–C.
"Vagueness of a ground of appeal may arise where it is couched in a manner which does not provide any explicit standard for its being understood, or when what is stated is so uncertain that it is not susceptible of being understood. It may also be considered vague when the complaint is not defined in relation to the subject or it is not particularized, or the particulars are clearly irrelevant."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
A vague ground of appeal is one that cannot be understood or does not provide an explicit standard. Vagueness also arises when the complaint is not defined in relation to the subject, not particularised, or the particulars are irrelevant. The court may strike out vague grounds. The principle ensures that the respondent knows the case to meet. The appellant must state the error clearly. The rule applies to all appellate courts. The court will examine the ground and particulars together. Vague grounds are a waste of judicial resources. The appellant may amend to cure vagueness. The court will not speculate on the intended complaint. The principle promotes clarity in appellate advocacy.