CONSTITUTIONAL LAW — Constitutional Interpretation — Ordinary Meaning of Words to be Applied
Principle Statement
In interpreting a statute or Constitution, the ordinary meaning of words applies prima facie. It is the duty of the court to interpret words used and give effect to their ordinary meaning.
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per Ogbuagu, JSC, in Fasakin Foods Nig Ltd v. Shosanya (2006) NLC-123-312-2001(SC) at p. 5; Paras B–C.
"It is now firmly established, that in the principle of construction or interpretation of a Statute or Constitution, the ordinary meaning of words, apply prima facie … That it is the duty of the court, to interpret words used in a Statute or Constitution. That ordinary meaning of the words used, should be given its effect."
Explanation / Scope
Courts give constitutional words their ordinary meaning. The principle applies to constitutional interpretation.
