I need only say that this argument is, with respect, simplistic as the finality of a decision can only be predicated upon the decision on its merit and not where there has been no valid and competent trial, so to say. It is my view that where a party is not validly served the originating processes as is the case with appellants herein – a registered company, there cannot be said to have been a trial or hearing involving it. Such purported trial cannot in my view give birth to a final decision that is capable of stripping the lower court imbued with not only general powers, but special right of enforcing such breaches – of such rights. It is trite that where a party is not served an originating process the entire proceedings as against him is a nullity. He is entitled to have it set aside.
— Danjuma, JCA. Tony Anthony Nig. Ltd & Ors. v. NDIC (CA/L/630/2009 • 25 January 2011)