The Federal High Court of Nigeria has introduced the Federal High Court (Pre Election) Practice Directions, 2026, as part of efforts to ensure the speedy, efficient, and fair resolution of pre election disputes across the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to a press statement signed by the Director of Information of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, the new Practice Directions were approved by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho.
The statement explained that the new guidelines are designed to strengthen the handling of pre election matters in accordance with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, the Electoral Act, 2026, and other applicable laws.
The court further stated that the Federal High Court (Pre Election) Practice Directions, 2026, have officially repealed the 2022 Practice Directions, making the newly introduced rules the governing framework for all pre election cases before the court.
The Federal High Court urged members of the Bar, political parties, litigants, and the general public to familiarize themselves with the new Practice Directions, noting that copies have been made available to guide all stakeholders.
The move is expected to enhance judicial efficiency and improve the timely determination of election related disputes as political activities intensify ahead of 2027.
