2027: Tension Mounts as Court Delivers Crucial Judgment on Goodluck Jonathan’s Presidential Eligibility in Major Political Showdown

The Federal High Court in Abuja is set to deliver judgment today, Friday, in a lawsuit challenging the eligibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election.

The suit was filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, who is seeking an order preventing Jonathan from participating in the 2027 race on constitutional grounds.

At the last court sitting, Goodluck Jonathan, through his counsel, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), asked the court to dismiss the case, arguing that the matter had already been settled by both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal in previous judgments.

According to Uche, the former president Goodluck Jonathan only became aware of the suit through media reports, prompting his legal team to file a preliminary objection, counter-affidavit, and written address challenging the case.

The proceedings, however, suffered delays after the plaintiff and other parties involved in the matter, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), failed to appear in court on two separate occasions.

The court had earlier warned that it could impose costs on the plaintiff over the repeated absence from proceedings.

Although Goodluck Jonathan’s lawyer urged the court to strike out the case for lack of diligent prosecution, Justice Peter Lifu declined the request, stating that all parties deserved one final opportunity to be heard in the interest of fairness.

The judge subsequently ordered that fresh hearing notices be served on the plaintiff, INEC, and the Attorney-General of the Federation before adjourning the matter for judgment.

Join Our Social Media Channels: