A Nigerian lawyer, Johnmary Chukwukasi Jideobi, has taken former President Goodluck Jonathan to the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to stop him from contesting in the 2027 presidential election or any future election.
In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, Jideobi urged the court to issue a perpetual injunction restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or publishing Jonathan’s name as a presidential candidate under any political party. The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) was also joined as a third defendant.
The case, which centers on the interpretation of Sections 1(1), (2), (3) and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), seeks to determine whether Jonathan is constitutionally eligible to contest again, having previously been sworn in twice as President.
In an affidavit deposed by Emmanuel Agida, Jideobi argued that Jonathan first became president on May 6, 2010, following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and was later elected for a full term in 2011. According to the plaintiff, any attempt to return to the presidency in 2027 would amount to a third term, which the constitution forbids.
Agida described himself as an advocate of constitutionalism and rule of law, saying he was compelled to act after reports emerged that Jonathan might run again. He insisted that allowing such an attempt would violate Section 137(3), which disqualifies anyone who has taken the presidential oath of office twice.
The lawyer maintained that he had the legal standing (locus standi) to file the case in defense of the rule of law and the supremacy of the Constitution. He urged the court to uphold constitutional integrity and prevent any potential breach.
Neither Jonathan, INEC, nor the Attorney-General’s office has reacted to the lawsuit as of press time. The case has rekindled political debate ahead of the 2027 general elections, with analysts predicting that it could reopen longstanding legal arguments over Jonathan’s eligibility.
No date has yet been fixed for the hearing.
