Federal High Court bars judges from granting ex parte orders in political cases

The Federal High Court on Monday barred its judges across the
federation from granting ex parte orders in any political case brought
before the court.

It also directed that all pending political cases that could affect
the opportunity of candidates to pursue their political ambitions,
should be concluded before the end of next month.

Ex parte orders are usually temporary (like a restraining order or
temporary custody) pending a formal hearing or an emergency request
for a continuance.

Chief Judge of the High Court, Justice Abdul Abdu-Karafati, gave the
directives during a special session the court held to mark the
commencement of its 2018/2019 Legal Year.

He disclosed that a circular had already been issued to judges to the
effect "that interim orders ex-parte shall not be granted in any
political cases brought before the court."

The chief judge said: "I believe that controversies, especially in
political cases, can be reduced when the court takes a decision after
hearing all the parties in the case.

"It is also extremely important that all political cases that may
affect any of the parties, which are still pending in any of our
courts, be concluded without further waste of time to afford all
candidates the the opportunity to pursue their political ambitions.

"Hon judges before whom such cases are still pending must endeavour to
conclude them before the end of October, 2018.

"I urge your Lordships to be wary in handling all cases and especially
cases concerning political parties and the upcoming general elections.
We should again use this court and the constitution to regulate our
society for the good of our children and mankind.

"I still believe that the judiciary remains the hope of all people
whether common or uncommon.

"It is, therefore, your duty to ensure that the society is moulded in
accordance with the rule of law and the constitution. You must
therefore administer justice without fear or favour."