A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed May 26, 2026, for judgment in a suit challenging the eligibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The case, which has drawn significant political attention ahead of the next general election cycle, was filed by a lawyer, Johnmary Jideobi, who is seeking judicial interpretation of constitutional provisions relating to presidential tenure limits and eligibility.
The plaintiff is asking the court to determine whether Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president between 2010 and 2015, is constitutionally qualified to seek election to the presidency again.
In the suit, the claimant is also urging the court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or processing any nomination form that may be submitted by Jonathan or any political party presenting him as a candidate.
During proceedings, legal arguments centered on interpretations of the 1999 Constitution, particularly provisions dealing with presidential tenure and term limits. The plaintiff maintains that Jonathan may have exhausted his constitutional allowance for holding the office.
However, Jonathan’s legal team has urged the court to dismiss the suit, insisting that the former president remains eligible to contest under the law and describing the case as speculative and premature.
The matter has undergone several hearings and adjournments at the Federal High Court in Abuja. After both parties concluded their submissions, the court announced that judgment will be delivered on May 26, 2026.
The ruling is expected to be a landmark decision, given its potential implications for Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The upcoming judgment is expected to clarify the legal position and could significantly influence party strategies and candidate selection ahead of the elections.
