The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to rule on Friday on a legal challenge that questions former President Goodluck Jonathan’s eligibility to run in the 2027 presidential election. The case, initiated by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, seeks to bar Jonathan from contesting based on constitutional provisions.
During the last hearing, Jonathan’s legal representative, Chief Chris Uche, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the suit, asserting that the matter had already been resolved by both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. Uche informed the court that the former president learned of the lawsuit through media coverage, prompting his team to file a preliminary objection and supporting documents.
The case faced delays after the plaintiff and other parties, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), failed to appear on two separate occasions. The court had warned that costs might be imposed on the plaintiff for the repeated absences. Despite Jonathan’s lawyer requesting the suit be struck out for lack of diligent prosecution, Justice Peter Lifu rejected the motion, stating that a final opportunity should be granted to ensure a fair hearing.
The judge then ordered the issuance of fresh hearing notices to the plaintiff, INEC, and the Attorney-General of the Federation before adjourning for judgment. The verdict is expected to clarify the legal landscape for Jonathan’s potential candidacy.