Solving the Jigsaw Puzzle: A Critical Analysis of the Evidence of an Accused Implicating a Co-Accused Under the Nigerian Law of Evidence

Abstract

This work appraises the vexed question of the status of the evidence of an accused implicating a co-accused in the light of section 199 of the Nigerian Evidence Act 2011 and decided cases. It discusses the aim, scope, and development of the principle governing the evidence of an accused implicating a co-accused, with special emphasis on the necessity or otherwise of corroboration, a warning, and circumspection with respect to such evidence. It also discusses the divergent judicial and academic opinions expressed in that regard and concludes by making recommendations as to the best way such evidence should be treated.