The Federal High Court has introduced new Practice Directions aimed at accelerating the hearing and determination of pre-election cases ahead of future elections.
The new guidelines, issued by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, replace the 2022 Practice Directions and are designed to reduce delays in the resolution of election-related disputes.
As part of the reforms, court registries nationwide will now operate on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to receive filings in pre-election matters, reflecting the time-sensitive nature of such cases. 
The Practice Directions also require judges to minimise unnecessary adjournments, adopt technology such as virtual hearings where appropriate, and ensure that hearings commence promptly once all required court processes have been filed.
The Federal High Court said the measures are intended to promote the timely and efficient adjudication of pre-election disputes while strengthening the administration of electoral justice in the country.
