Legal Nuggets (75): General Principle of Law Governing the Interpretation of Our Constitution.- By Adedotun Habeeb Adetunji, LL.M (M.IoD), FCAI

TINUBU v. I.M.B. SECURITIES PLC. (2001) LPELR-3248(SC)

ISSUE
INTERPRETATION OF CONSTITUTION: General principle of law governing the interpretation of our Constitution

PRINCIPLE
"In this regard, it will be necessary to recall the general principle of law governing the interpretation of our Constitution. This is that such interpretation as would serve the interest of the Constitution and best carry out its object and purpose should be preferred. Its relevant provisions must be read together and not dis-jointly and where the words of any section are clear and unambiguous, they must be given their ordinary meaning unless this would lead to absurdity or be in conflict with other provisions of the Constitution." Per IGUH, J.S.C. (P.17, paras.D-G)
CITED CASES
Chief D. O. Ifezue v Livinus Mbadughn & Anor (1984) 1 SCNLR 427; (1984) 5 S.C. 79 at 101.