Legal Drama Unfolds: Fresh Lawsuit Aims to Block Jonathan’s 2027 Presidential Ambitions
In a dramatic turn of events that’s stirring up Nigeria’s political waters, a fresh legal challenge has emerged targeting former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential bid for the 2027 presidential race. On Monday, the Federal High Court in Abuja became the battleground for this intriguing political saga.
At the heart of this legal showdown is lawyer Johnmary Chukwukasi Jideobi, who’s determined to prevent Jonathan from throwing his hat into the presidential ring. The lawsuit doesn’t just target the former president – it’s also seeking to tie INEC’s hands, preventing them from accepting or publishing Jonathan’s name as a candidate from any political party.
The case, filed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, brings together three heavyweight defendants: Jonathan himself as the primary target, INEC as the electoral umpire, and the Attorney General of the Federation completing this high-stakes legal triangle. The entire case hinges on a single, yet crucial constitutional question about Jonathan’s eligibility to contest for the presidency under any circumstances, citing specific sections of the 1999 Constitution.
The legal challenge specifically references Sections 1(1), (2) & (3) and 137(3) of Nigeria’s Constitution, questioning whether these provisions would allow Jonathan to pursue another presidential term. This development adds another fascinating chapter to Nigeria’s ever-evolving political narrative, potentially affecting the landscape of the upcoming 2027 presidential race.
