Federal High Court to take two-week break for Christmas and New Year

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, has said the court will take a two-week break for Christmas starting from December 21. He has also appointed vacation judges to handle emergency cases during this time.

Justice Tsoho made this announcement in a statement signed by Catherine Oby-Christopher, the court's Director of Information. The vacation will run from December 21 to January 5.

"According to Order 46, Rule 4(c) of the Federal High Court (Civil) Procedure Rules, 2019, I have approved the Christmas Vacation for the year 2026 and the list of Judges who will sit during this period," the chief judge said.

He added that regular court sessions will start again on January 6. Only certain judicial divisions will be open during the break to provide services to those who need them.

Justice Tsoho named the vacation judges. Justice Inyang Ekwo and Justice Obiora Egwuatu will handle cases in the Abuja division. Justice Akintayo Aluko and Justice Ogazi Nkemakonam will be in the Lagos division.

He also mentioned that Justice P. M. Ayua and Justice A. T. Mohammed will sit at the Port Harcourt division. Justice Folashade Giwa-Ogunbanjo and Justice M. T. Segun-Bello will take care of cases in the Enugu division.

"During the vacation, the judges will handle only matters related to the enforcement of fundamental rights, the arrest or release of vessels, and urgent national issues like pre-election cases," Mr Tsoho said.

The chief judge wished all judges and court staff a Merry Christmas and a successful New Year in advance.