The Federal High Court of Nigeria has directed that its registries across all divisions will remain open on weekends and public holidays for the filing of pre-election matters only.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
The directive was contained in a circular dated May 22, 2026, and addressed to Deputy Chief Registrars, Station Registrars, the Nigerian Bar Association and the general public.
The circular, issued from the Federal High Court headquarters at Shehu Shagari Way, Central Business District, Abuja, was signed by Tamarapreye A. Tabai, Deputy Chief Registrar, Litigation, for the Chief Registrar.
According to the court, the decision became necessary because of the short time frame within which pre-election matters must be filed.
The circular stated that the registry of the Federal High Court in all divisions would be open on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. strictly for the filing of pre-election matters.
It read: “In consideration of the short time frame within which to file pre-election matters, kindly take note that the Registry of the Federal High Court in all Divisions will be open on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for the purposes of filing Pre-Election Matters only.”
The development comes amid rising political activities, party primaries and disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties, aspirants and candidates expected to approach the courts over nomination, substitution, screening, and other pre-election grievances.
However, a critic reacting to the circular said the decision showed how much priority political disputes often receive in the justice system.
“Of course, because politicians and political gladiators must be given all facilities and access to the courts to pursue the resolution of their political disputes without any delay,” the critic said.
The critic’s comment reflects concerns that while political cases often receive urgent institutional attention because of strict constitutional and statutory timelines, many ordinary civil and criminal matters continue to suffer delays in the courts.
The Federal High Court, however, limited the special weekend and public holiday access to pre-election matters only, stressing that the arrangement was made in view of the limited time allowed for such cases under the law.
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
The book, titled The Law of Torts in Nigeria: A Functional Approach, authored by Professor Hagler Sunny Okorie Ph.D and Ikeocha, Nathaniel Ngozi Esq, offers law students, practitioners, and academics a comprehensive guide to understanding and applying tort law in Nigerian courts. Interested buyers can place orders via the following contact numbers: 08028636615, 08037667945, 08032253813, or +234 902 196 2209.
_______________________________________________________________________
“Order Your Copy Now” — Basil Momodu, Esq. Unveils Second Edition Of His Book, "Civil Procedure In Nigeria"
According to the learned author, Basil Momodu Esq. "Law review is a continuum. We will continue to track changes in the law to enrich future editions." Recommended Booksellers: Lagos: 08033855230, Abuja: 08035991379, and others.
