By Uloma Peace Okorie
The Federal High Court of Nigeria has introduced a new set of Practice Directions to regulate the hearing and determination of pre-election matters, as part of efforts to ensure speedy and efficient dispensation of justice ahead of future elections.
The new guidelines, known as the Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2026, were issued by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, OFR.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Director of Information of the Federal High Court, Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, the Practice Directions are designed to promote the timely, fair and effective resolution of pre-election disputes in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2026, and other relevant laws.
The court stated that the 2026 Practice Directions have repealed the Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2022, making the new rules the operational framework for all pre-election cases before the court.
It explained that the revised guidelines are expected to strengthen case management, reduce delays in the adjudication of pre-election matters and enhance public confidence in the judicial process as political activities gather momentum.
The Federal High Court called on members of the legal profession, political parties, litigants and the general public to study and comply with the new Practice Directions, noting that copies have been made available to guide all stakeholders.
The statement was signed by Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, Director of Information, Federal High Court of Nigeria, and dated June 29, 2026