A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned a suit challenging Goodluck Jonathan’s eligibility to contest the 2027 presidential election
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday adjourned a suit challenging the eligibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election, shifting proceedings to May 11, 2026.
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Justice Peter Lifu adjourned the matter after counsel to the plaintiff, Ndubuisi Ukpai, informed the court that he had only recently been served with a preliminary objection from the defence and required time to respond.
The suit raises constitutional questions over Jonathan’s eligibility under the 1999 Constitution, seeking judicial interpretation of whether the former president can lawfully re-enter the presidential race.
At the resumed hearing, counsel to Jonathan, Chris Uche (SAN), told the court that he only became aware of the matter through media reports and had since moved to ensure all necessary legal filings were properly submitted.
He also referenced earlier judicial decisions by the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal, questioning why similar issues around Jonathan’s eligibility were being revisited.
The Independent National Electoral Commission and the Attorney-General of the Federation, who are listed as respondents in the case, were not represented in court.
After hearing submissions from all sides, Justice Lifu ordered that hearing notices be properly served on all parties before the next sitting date.
The suit, filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, is seeking declarations that Jonathan is constitutionally barred from contesting the presidency again, citing provisions of the 1999 Constitution.
The plaintiff also asked the court to restrain political parties from presenting Jonathan as a candidate and to prevent the electoral commission from accepting or publishing his name for the 2027 general election.
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With the adjournment, the case remains pending as the court continues deliberation on one of the most closely watched pre-election legal battles ahead of 2027.
