LEGAL PRINCIPLE: CRIMINAL LAW — Murder — Absence of Corpus Delicti — Conviction Sustainable Without Body
PRINCIPLE STATEMENT
It has long been judicially recognised that conviction for murder can be sustained in the absence of corpus delicti where there is strong direct evidence.
RATIO DECIDENDI (SOURCE)
Per Edozie, JSC, in Ubani & Ors v. State (2003) NLC-2722002(SC) at p. 13; Paras D–E.
"It has long been judicially recognised that conviction for murder can be sustained in the absence of corpus delicti where there is a strong direct evidence."
EXPLANATION / SCOPE
A murder conviction does not require the deceased’s body. Strong direct evidence may suffice. The principle applies to homicide cases. The prosecution must prove death beyond reasonable doubt. The rule recognises practical difficulties. The court may rely on circumstantial evidence. The principle is well-established.