EVIDENCE LAW — Fraud — Allegation of Fraud — Must Be Specifically Pleaded and Proved
Ratio Decidendi
Per Onu, JSC, in Okoli v. Morecab Finance (Nig) Ltd (2007) NLC-123-73-2002(SC) at p. 13; Paras A–C:
"It is the law that fraud unravels everything; it must be specifically pleaded and its particulars given failing which the evidence obtained thereof would not be admissible."
Explanation / Scope
Fraud must be specifically pleaded with full particulars. General allegations of fraud are insufficient. The rationale is that fraud is a serious allegation that must be clearly set out to give the opposing party fair notice. Evidence of fraud will not be admitted unless it is pleaded with sufficient particularity.