Court Adjourns Jonathan's 2027 Eligibility Suit to May 11

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled the next hearing for the eligibility disqualification suit against former President Goodluck Jonathan for May 11, 2026. The suit, filed by Ndubuisi Ukpai, aims to stop Jonathan from contesting in the 2027 presidential election, arguing that he has already exhausted his constitutional limit for presidential tenure as outlined in the 1999 Constitution.

Justice Peter Lifu presided over the case, where it was noted that Jonathan became aware of the suit through media reports. The court was informed that the plaintiff's counsel requested time to study the defense's preliminary objections.

The legal action centers on whether Jonathan has completed the tenure of late President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, which would affect his eligibility. The plaintiff seeks a declaration that Jonathan is constitutionally barred from contesting again and requests an order to prevent the Independent National Electoral Commission from accepting or publishing Jonathan's name as a presidential candidate.

The case is expected to continue with legal arguments on the adjourned date.