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Classes of Presumptions


There are basically two classes of presumptions, namely, presumptions of fact and presumptions of law. Presumption of law is further divided into rebuttable and irrebuttable presumptions of law. This mode of classification is not without its criticisms. However, it is convenient and can be used in cases of presumptions under the Evidence Act.

This is particularly so given that where the relevant provision of the Evidence Act or any law states that the court “may presume” a fact, a presumption of fact is created and where it states that the court “shall presume” a fact, a presumption of law is created. The case of Madagwa v State (1987) 4 NWLR (Pt. 64) 172 (CA); (1988) 5 NWLR (Pt. 92) 60 (SC) is instructive.
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