(b)
The subject matter of the case is within its jurisdiction and there is no feature in the
case which prevents the court from exercising its jurisdiction and
(c)
The case comes before the court initiated by due process of law upon fulfillment of
condition precedent to the exercise of jurisdiction.
19. The above stated conditions must be fulfilled before the court may safely assume
jurisdiction in a matter and a breakdown of the same will further specify the following sub
conditions emanating from the main thus:
(a)
Whether the subject matter is within the competence of the court
(b)
Whether the cause of action is properly initiated by due process and no condition
precedent such as the issues raised relating to the retrospectivity of legislation;
substitution of legislation.
20. The subject matter in the instant case prima facie relates to an alleged violation of human
right of free movement as provided pursuant to Article 12 of the African Charter on Human and
Peoples' Rights. The said Article 12(1) of the said Charter provides that:
"1. Every individual shall have the right to freedom of
movement of residence within the borders of a state
provided he abides by the law.
2.
Every individual shall have the right to leave any
country including his own, and to return to his country.
The right may only be subject to restrictions, provided
for bylaw for the protection of national security, law and
order, public health or morality"
21. The second and third issues pertaining to the subject matter of the claim in respect of erection
of toll gates, collection of toll fares by Police. Customs and Immigration officials of the defendants,
occasional closure of border and restriction of movement of persons and goods fall under the
9