The Federal High Court has amended its 2026 Pre-Election Practice Directions, introducing new measures that allow judges to conduct virtual hearings, transfer pre-election cases across judicial divisions, and keep court registries open on weekends and public holidays for election-related filings.
The amendments, issued by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, took effect on July 14, less than three weeks after the original Practice Directions came into force on June 26.
According to a statement by the court’s Director of Information, Dr Catherine Christopher, the revised rules are aimed at ensuring the speedy, efficient and fair determination of pre-election matters in line with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2026 and other relevant laws.
Among the key changes is the introduction of virtual hearings for pre-election cases, giving judges the option to use technology in conducting proceedings.
The amendments also empower the Chief Judge to assign judges to hear cases in any judicial division and transfer matters between divisions where necessary.
The new rules further strengthen electronic case management by allowing the court to notify lawyers of urgent proceedings through email and other electronic means, provided notice is given at least 48 hours before the hearing.
While retaining the limit of two adjournments per party, the amended Practice Directions now prohibit applications for adjournment on scheduled hearing dates.
Parties that change legal representation during proceedings are also restricted to two adjournments.
In addition, courts are now empowered to award costs against parties or counsel found to have filed interlocutory applications solely to delay proceedings.
Parties alleging fraud, forgery or other disputed facts must also file written witness depositions in addition to affidavits, with such witnesses subject to cross-examination.
The Court said the changes are intended to improve the management and timely resolution of pre-election disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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