APPELLATE PRACTICE — Party Appearing in Person — Right of Appellant to Conduct Own Appeal
Ratio Decidendi
Per OGBUAGU, JSC, in Abdullahi v. The Military Administrator (2009) NLC-123-146-2003(SC) at p. 18; Paras B–C:
"Every Appellant, be he a barrister or solicitor or an ordinary member of the public, has a right to argue his case either at first instance or on appeal in person."
Explanation / Scope
This principle establishes the right of any appellant to conduct their own appeal in person, regardless of whether they are a legal practitioner or a member of the public. The principle applies in all appellate proceedings. It ensures access to justice for self-represented litigants. The principle reflects the constitutional right to fair hearing. It prevents the court from denying a party the right to argue their case personally. The court must accommodate self-represented parties. The principle provides guidance on the rights of parties in appellate proceedings. It ensures that representation is not compulsory.