Former President Goodluck Jonathan has taken legal steps to challenge a suit that seeks to prevent him from contesting the 2027 presidential election. The case, filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, aims to bar Jonathan from running for office on constitutional grounds.
Jonathan's Legal Response
On Friday, Jonathan, through his counsel Chief Chris Uche (SAN), appeared before Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Uche informed the court that a letter of conditional appearance, a notice of preliminary objection, a counter affidavit, and a written address had been filed on May 5, urging the court to dismiss the case. He noted that they learned of the suit through media reports and filed their responses urgently due to the matter's significance, which concerns Jonathan's eligibility for the next election.
Uche expressed regret that such a suit was filed by a lawyer who should be aware that the same issue had already been decided by the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal.
Plaintiff's Position and Court Adjournment
Counsel for the plaintiff, Ndubuisi Ukpai, stated that the matter was scheduled for mention but had just been served with Jonathan's legal documents. He requested additional time to respond.
Justice Lifu adjourned the case until May 11 at 2pm for the hearing of Jonathan's objection and the substantive suit. The judge also ordered that hearing notices be issued and served on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), who are the second and third defendants in the case.
Background of the Suit
Johnmary Jideobi initiated the suit (marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025) seeking a court order to permanently restrain Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party for the 2027 presidential election. He also requested that INEC be barred from accepting or publishing Jonathan's name as a candidate. The suit cites constitutional provisions as the basis for the requested injunction.
