Goodluck Jonathan has formally opposed a lawsuit seeking to prevent him from contesting the 2027 presidential election in Nigeria.
During proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, Jonathan’s lawyer, Chris Uche, informed Justice Peter Lifu that the former president had already filed all necessary legal documents challenging the suit.
According to the defence team, Jonathan submitted a conditional appearance, preliminary objection, counter affidavit, and written address on May 5, asking the court to dismiss the case entirely.
Uche argued that the issue surrounding Jonathan’s eligibility to contest the presidency again had already been addressed by previous court decisions, including judgments delivered by the Court of Appeal.
Counsel to the plaintiff, Ndubuisi Ukpai, requested more time to study Jonathan’s legal response and prepare a reply after receiving the documents in court.
Justice Peter Lifu subsequently adjourned the matter until May 11 for hearing on both the preliminary objection and the substantive suit. The judge also ordered hearing notices to be served on the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Attorney General of the Federation, who were absent during proceedings.
The lawsuit was filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, who is seeking a court order permanently barring Jonathan from participating in the 2027 presidential election.
The plaintiff argued that Jonathan had already taken the presidential oath of office twice and therefore could not constitutionally seek another term under Sections 1 and 137(3) of the Nigerian Constitution.
Court documents also referenced Jonathan’s rise to office in 2010 following the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar Adua and his subsequent victory in the 2011 presidential election.
The case continues to generate political and legal debate over presidential tenure limits and constitutional interpretation ahead of the 2027 general election.
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