H/Court Issues Pre-election Practice Directions Amendment 2026

The Federal High Court of Nigeria has notified the general public that the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, has issued the Federal High Court Pre-Election Practice Directions(Amendment), 2026, amending the initial Federal High Court Pre-Election Practice Directions, 2026, which came into effect from Friday, 26th June, 2026.

In a statement issued to newsmen by the Director of Information, Federal High Court of Nigeria Dr Catherine Oby Christopher, the practice direction was to provide for fair, impartial and expeditious determination of all pre-election cases.

According to the statement the practice direction was to ensure that all parties involved in pre- election matters minimize the time spent dealing on interlocutory matters.

It explained that the Amended Practice Directions is made pursuant to Sections 254 and 285(9), (10) and (14) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), Sections 29(5) and 88(2) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and all other powers enabling the Honourable Chief Judge in that regard.

The statement emphasized that in line with the initial Practice Directions, the amendment is intended to enhance the speedy, efficient, and fair determination of pre-election matters in keeping with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2026, and other applicable laws.

It added that the practice direction was to ensure the possibility of amicable settlement is explored before parties go into hearing to minimize unsure delays and adjournment in the conduct of the matters.

PR/Garry Ochigbo