TORT LAW ā Defamation ā Justification ā Effect of Plaintiff’s Conduct Inviting Publication
Principle Statement
The plaintiff by his letter induced, compelled, and propelled the defendant to write his protest letters.
Ratio Decidendi (Source)
Per Oguntade, JSC, in Iloabachie v. Iloabachie (2005) NLC-123-137-2000(SC) at p. 29; Paras CāD.
"I hold that the plaintiff by his letter, exhibit S, induced, compelled and propelled the defendant to write his protest letters as demonstrated by exhibits C and D."
Explanation / Scope
A plaintiff who induces or provokes the defendant’s publication cannot complain of defamation. The principle applies to tort law and defamation. Provocation may justify the communication.
