The Federal High Court has amended its 2026 Pre-Election Practice Directions, introducing new measures designed to speed up the resolution of election-related disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The revised Federal High Court rules, which took effect on July 14, were issued by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, less than three weeks after the original Practice Directions became operational on June 26.
According to a statement by the court’s Director of Information, Dr Catherine Christopher, the amendments were made under relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2026 and other applicable laws to ensure quicker, more efficient and fair handling of pre-election matters.
One of the major changes in the updated Federal High Court rules is the introduction of virtual hearings, allowing judges to leverage technology in conducting proceedings where necessary.
The amendments also empower the Chief Judge to assign judges to any judicial division for pre-election matters and transfer cases between divisions whenever the need arises, expanding the court’s administrative flexibility.
Electronic case management has equally been strengthened. The court can now notify lawyers of urgent hearings and other case developments through email and other electronic platforms, provided such notices are issued at least 48 hours before proceedings.
While the court retained the provision limiting parties to a maximum of two adjournments, it introduced stricter controls by prohibiting applications for adjournment on scheduled hearing dates. Parties who change legal representation during proceedings are also restricted to two adjournments.
The revised practice directions maintain the constitutional requirement that preliminary objections and jurisdictional issues be determined alongside the substantive suit during final judgment. However, judges now have the authority to award costs against parties or legal practitioners who file interlocutory applications solely to delay proceedings.
In addition, litigants alleging fraud, forgery or other disputed facts must now file written witness depositions alongside affidavits, with such witnesses required to undergo cross-examination.
The amended guidelines also retain existing timelines requiring respondents to enter appearances within seven days, submit their defence within ten days and allowing applicants three days to file replies. Written addresses supporting originating summons remain capped at 15 pages, while those for preliminary objections must not exceed 10 pages.
The updated Federal High Court rules are expected to strengthen judicial efficiency and ensure election-related disputes are concluded within constitutional timelines as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
