By TAIYE AGBAJE

Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court (FHC) has amended the 2026 Pre-Election Practice Directions.

Justice Tsoho said the new practice directions amended the initial Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2026, came into effect in June 26.

The Director of Information of the court, Mrs Catherine-Oby Christopher, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

The Chief Judy said the amended practice direction was made pursuant to Sections 254 and 285(9), (10) and (14) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),

“It is also in line with Sections 29(5) and 88(2) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and all other powers enabling the Chief Judge to effect the amendment.”

The amendment is aimed at enhancing the speedy, efficient and fair determination of pre-election matters ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“In line with the initial Practice Directions, the amendment is intended to enhance the speedy, efficient, and fair determination of pre-election matters in keeping with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“It also aims at enhancing the Electoral Act, 2026, and other applicable laws.

The court also introduced fresh measures that empower judges to conduct virtual hearings, transfer pre-election cases across judicial divisions, and keep court registries open on weekends and public holidays for the filing of election-related suits. (NAN)

Update news