LEGAL PRINCIPLE: CONSTITUTIONAL LAW — Tribunals of Inquiry — Compulsive Powers — Validity of Summons and Evidence Provisions
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
Sections 5(c), 10 and 11(3) of the Tribunals of Inquiry Act are constitutional and valid insofar as they apply to the Federal Capital Territory.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Uwaifo, JSC, in Fawehinmi & Ors v. Babangida & Ors (2003) NLC-3602001(SC) at p. 28; Paras A–C.
"Sections 5(c), 10 and 11(3) of the Tribunals of Inquiry Act, are constitutional and valid in so far as they apply to the Federal Capital Territory."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
Tribunals of inquiry may have powers to summon witnesses and take evidence. The principle applies to constitutional law. The provisions are valid for the FCT. The rule recognises the necessity of compulsive powers for effective inquiry. The principle is well-established.
