Former President Goodluck Jonathan has formally requested the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a lawsuit aimed at preventing him from contesting the 2027 presidential election. The suit, filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi on Friday, May 8, challenges Jonathan's eligibility to run for office again.
Jonathan's Legal Response
Through his lead counsel, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), Jonathan informed Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court that he had filed a letter of conditional appearance, a notice of preliminary objection, a counter affidavit, and a written address on Tuesday, May 5. He urged the court to strike out the case, arguing that the matter had already been adjudicated by both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal.
Jonathan stated that he learned of the suit through media reports, prompting his legal team to act swiftly due to the gravity of the issue—his eligibility as a former president to contest in the 2027 general elections.
Prosecution's Position
The prosecuting counsel, Ndubuisi Ukpai, informed the court that the case was scheduled for mention but noted that he had just been served with Jonathan's legal documents. He requested additional time to prepare a response.
Public Reactions to 2027 Calls
The development comes amid growing calls from some groups urging Jonathan to join the 2027 presidential race, which has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians.
- Okpanachi Sulieman advised Jonathan to maintain his status as an elder statesman, warning against being used by political figures and reminding him of challenges during his tenure.
- Jules Eby argued that Jonathan is constitutionally barred from running, having been sworn in as president twice, and urged him to step aside to preserve his reputation.
- Addel predicted that Jonathan would lose decisively to President Bola Tinubu if he contested, stating that Nigeria has moved on.
- Anthony forecast a poor electoral performance for Jonathan, suggesting he would not secure up to 2 million votes.
Shehu Sani Criticizes Jonathan's Past
In a related commentary, former Senator Shehu Sani faulted Jonathan for being the architect of his own defeat in the 2015 presidential election. Sani highlighted three actions Jonathan took that President Tinubu or any other leader would not replicate, though he did not elaborate further.
The court is expected to set a new date for the hearing after the prosecution files its response.
