LEGAL PRINCIPLE: CIVIL PROCEDURE — Jurisdiction — Territorial Jurisdiction — High Court of FCT Limited to Matters Arising Within FCT
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
Each State of the Federation is independent of the other, and the jurisdiction of its court is limited to matters arising in its territory. The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory lacks jurisdiction over matters arising in Jigawa State.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Ogundare, JSC, in Dalhatu v. Turaki & Ors (2003) NLC-312003(SC) at pp. 12–13; Paras D–A.
"It cannot be denied that the subject matter of the appellants' case relates to the governorship of Jigawa State a territory that is distinct and separate from the Federal Capital Territory. If any court must have jurisdiction over such a subject matter, it has to be the court in Jigawa State. For the purpose of exercising jurisdiction each State of the Federation is independent of the other and the jurisdiction of its court is limited to matters arising in its territory."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
Territorial jurisdiction is limited to matters arising within the state. The principle applies to all State High Courts. The FCT High Court cannot adjudicate on matters from another state. The rule ensures proper venue. The court will strike out actions lacking territorial jurisdiction. The principle is well-established.