A suit filed by lawyer, Johnmary Jideobi, seeking to stop former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election has suffered another setback at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The matter, before Justice Peter Odo Lifu, could not proceed on Friday as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) failed to appear in court for the second time. INEC had also been absent at the earlier hearing on May 11.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, who is the 3rd defendant, also informed the court that he had not been properly served with the originating summons and therefore could not respond or file any processes.
Faced with these issues, Justice Lifu adjourned the case, stating that it was in the interest of justice and fair hearing to ensure proper service is effected on all parties.
The judge subsequently fixed May 18 for definite hearing and directed the plaintiff to ensure all necessary documents are properly served on the relevant defendants.
At the May 11 sitting, the court had earlier fixed May 15 for definite hearing, but proceedings were stalled due to the absence of the plaintiff and his lawyer, who did not notify the court.
Counsel to former President Jonathan, Chris Uche (SAN), had urged the court to strike out the suit for lack of diligent prosecution, arguing that the repeated absence of the plaintiff and defendants showed a lack of seriousness. He also sought a cost of ₦5 million against the plaintiff.
The suit challenges Jonathan’s eligibility to contest future elections, asking the court to determine whether, under sections 1(1), (2), (3) and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution, he remains qualified to run for president again.
The plaintiff argues that Jonathan has already completed two tenures, first finishing the term of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua after his death in 2010, and later serving a full elected term after the 2011 general election.
In an affidavit supporting the case, Emmanuel Agida stated that concerns over reports suggesting Jonathan’s possible return to the 2027 presidential race prompted the legal action.
He maintained that allowing Jonathan to contest again would amount to a third presidential oath of office, which he argued is unconstitutional.
The plaintiff further contends that the suit is in the public interest, aimed at upholding constitutional provisions and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
