ABUJA – The Federal High Court has introduced fresh Practice Directions to fast-track the hearing of pre-election cases ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stricter timelines for lawyers, litigants and judges.
The amended Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2026, issued by the Chief Judge, Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, are aimed at ensuring the speedy, fair and efficient determination of election-related disputes.
The new rules were announced in a statement signed by the court’s Director of Information, Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher.
According to the court, the amendments revise the earlier Practice Directions that came into effect on June 26, 2026, and were made in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2026.
One of the major changes requires anyone challenging the conduct or outcome of political party primaries to include all necessary parties in the suit to enable the court to effectively determine the matter.
To meet constitutional timelines, all Federal High Court registries nationwide will now open on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. exclusively for the filing of pre-election cases.
The amended rules also provide that all pre-election matters must commence through originating summons.
However, where allegations of fraud, forgery or other disputed facts are raised, parties must file witness depositions in addition to affidavits, while such witnesses may be cross-examined during proceedings.
The court also introduced strict timelines for filing processes.
Respondents are expected to enter appearance within seven days after being served and file their responses within 10 days, while applicants have only three days to reply where necessary.
To discourage unnecessary delays, the Practice Directions prohibit the service of court processes on the day fixed for hearing and encourage the use of electronic mail and other digital platforms to notify lawyers of urgent court proceedings.
The Chief Judge also retained the power to transfer pre-election cases between judicial divisions and assign judges where necessary.
Judges handling election disputes have also been authorised to conduct virtual proceedings using technology.
Under the new regime, hearing dates must be fixed within seven days after the exchange of court processes, while pre-election matters are to enjoy priority until judgment is delivered.
The court further ruled that no party will be allowed more than two adjournments and that applications for adjournment will not be entertained on scheduled hearing dates.
Where a lawyer is unable to attend court due to ill health or other unavoidable reasons, another counsel familiar with the case is expected to appear or, where possible, seek a virtual hearing with the consent of all parties.
The Practice Directions also provide that preliminary objections and jurisdictional issues will be heard together with the substantive case and determined in the final judgment, except where objections relate to the service of originating processes.
The Federal High Court said ongoing pre-election cases filed before the amendment will continue under the previous rules, while the new provisions will guide future election-related litigation.
