A Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to deliver judgment tomorrow, May 8, in a high-profile suit seeking to stop former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, was filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, who argues that Jonathan is constitutionally barred from seeking the presidency again under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
Why Jonathan’s 2027 Eligibility Is Being Challenged
The plaintiff claims that Jonathan already exhausted the constitutional limit allowed for a Nigerian president after:
Completing the tenure of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2010 following his death, and
Serving another full four-year term after winning the 2011 presidential election.
According to the suit, allowing Jonathan to contest again in 2027 could amount to a violation of constitutional tenure provisions.
The lawyer is therefore asking the court to restrain Jonathan from presenting himself as a presidential candidate under any political party.
He also wants the court to stop Independent National Electoral Commission from accepting or publishing Jonathan’s name for the election.
Sections of the Constitution at the Centre of the Case
The suit relies heavily on interpretations of Sections 1 and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution.
The plaintiff argues that a person who completes the tenure of another president and later wins another election may not be eligible for an additional term beyond the constitutional limit.
An affidavit filed before the court stated that Jonathan first took the presidential oath on May 6, 2010, after Yar’Adua’s death, before later winning the 2011 election.
The plaintiff insists that a fresh victory in 2027 would mean Jonathan is taking the presidential oath for a third time.
Jonathan Yet to Officially Declare for 2027
Although Goodluck Jonathan has not formally declared interest in the 2027 race, reports linking him to a possible comeback have continued to circulate in political circles.
Jonathan had earlier stated that he was consulting widely before making any final decision about the election.
His potential return has generated debate across Nigeria’s political space, with supporters arguing that he remains eligible, while critics insist the Constitution does not permit another bid.
Legal Experts Divided Over the Suit
Some legal analysts believe the case raises important constitutional questions, while others have dismissed it as unnecessary.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Oba Maduabuchi, previously described the suit as “a waste of judicial time,” arguing that Jonathan’s eligibility had already been addressed in earlier court proceedings.
However, supporters of the suit insist the court must clarify the constitutional interpretation to avoid future controversies.
Why the Judgment Matters
The court’s decision could have major implications for the 2027 presidential election and Nigeria’s political landscape.
A ruling against Jonathan may permanently end speculation about his return to power, while a favourable judgment could reopen discussions about a possible political comeback.
The case is also being closely watched because of its potential impact on how presidential tenure limits are interpreted in Nigeria moving forward.
❓ FAQ
Can Goodluck Jonathan legally contest the 2027 election?
That is the key issue before the Federal High Court. The plaintiff argues he is constitutionally ineligible, while others believe he still has the right to contest.
Why is the case important?
The judgment could shape future interpretations of presidential tenure limits in Nigeria.
Has Jonathan declared for 2027?
No official declaration has been made yet, although there have been growing political speculations about his possible return.
When will the judgment be delivered?
The Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to deliver judgment on May 8.
- NAN