BOLOUKUROMO MOSES UGO, JCA (Delivering the Leading Judgment): This appeal, a one-sided one, raises among others the question of how a public document is proved in a proceeding such as an originating summons that is commenced and heard on affidavits and whether the Court is bound to specifically call for addresses from parties before discountenancing in its judgment.
The Background
The facts of the case are that the appellant, a former staff of the 1st respondent, was compulsorily retired from its service by respondents sometime in March 2007 vide a letter dated 23rd March, 2007. In reaction, appellant petitioned the then Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation (hereinafter referred to as the HAGF) for a review of his situation and possible reinstatement among other measures/steps, the HAGF being the supervising minister of first respondent, it is common ground.
It is claimed by appellant, and so it appears in fact, that the HAGF acceded to his request by having his case reviewed/in…