The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Justice John Tsoho, has announced that the annual yuletide vacation for judges will begin on December 16, 2024. In a statement released today, Justice Tsoho confirmed that the vacation period, traditionally observed to allow judges a break during the holiday season, will extend through early January 2025.

This annual break is intended to provide the Federal High Court judges with time to rest and recuperate following a demanding year of judicial duties. It also allows for the observance of the Christmas and New Year festivities across Nigeria.

The announcement also provided details on the continuity of court operations during the vacation period. Special duty judges will be designated to handle urgent cases that may arise during the holiday season, ensuring that critical matters receive prompt attention. According to Justice Tsoho, these judges will be stationed in key divisions across the country, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, to cover cases requiring immediate action.

Legal practitioners and litigants with pending matters have been advised to take note of the yuletide schedule, as regular court proceedings will resume on January 8, 2025. This year’s vacation schedule follows the Federal High Court’s established tradition of observing a holiday recess, allowing judges time to recharge before the court’s regular activities recommence in the new year.

Justice Tsoho expressed his gratitude to the judiciary staff, legal practitioners, and the general public for their support throughout the year and extended his best wishes for a safe and peaceful holiday season.