Federal High Court introduces new pre-election rules, permits weekend filing of cases
By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Federal High Court has introduced new practice directions for handling pre-election cases, bringing major reforms aimed at speeding up the resolution of election-related disputes ahead of future elections.
The new rules, known as the Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2026, officially took effect on June 29, 2026, and have repealed the 2022 Practice Directions.
Signed by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice, the revised guidelines introduce key changes, including the filing of pre-election suits on weekends and public holidays, virtual court hearings, stricter limits on adjournments, and wider powers for the Chief Judge to transfer cases across judicial divisions nationwide.
According to a press statement signed by the Director of Information of the Federal High Court, Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, the new rules are designed to ensure faster, fairer, and more efficient handling of pre-election disputes in line with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2026, and other relevant laws.
One of the major changes is that court registries in all divisions of the Federal High Court will now remain open on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. strictly for the filing of pre-election matters.
The court said this measure is intended to prevent litigants from missing constitutional deadlines for filing election-related cases.
The new guidelines also approve the use of technology in court proceedings, allowing judges to conduct virtual hearings where necessary to reduce delays.
In addition, the Chief Judge now has the authority to assign judges to hear pre-election cases in any judicial division and transfer such matters from one division to another when necessary for effective case management.
Under the new rules, all pre-election suits must be filed through Originating Summons, except in cases involving allegations such as fraud, forgery, or other highly disputed facts.
The Practice Directions also introduced strict timelines for court filings. Respondents must enter appearance within seven days of being served and file their defence within 10 days, while applicants may file replies within three days where necessary.
