CHIEFTAINCY LAW — Judicial Review in Chieftaincy — Dismissal of Chieftaincy Suit Without Hearing Evidence on Pleadings Is Premature

Dismissing a chieftaincy suit without examining pleadings and relevant declarations is premature. The principle applies to chieftaincy law. The court must evaluate the claim against the governing instruments. The rule ensures proper adjudication. The trial judge must not abdicate responsibility. The principle is well-established.