Jonathan and AGF Challenge 2027 Election Suit

Goodluck Jonathan, the former President of Nigeria, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) are opposing a lawsuit filed by Abuja-based lawyer Johnmari Jideobi, which seeks to bar Jonathan from contesting in the 2027 presidential election. The case is currently before Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, with a judgment date set for May 26.

Jideobi argues that Jonathan has exhausted his constitutional limit for holding office, having completed a full term following the death of President Umaru Yar'Adua. Jonathan first assumed the presidency on May 6, 2010, and was elected on May 29, 2011.

Jonathan's counsel, Chris Uche, SAN, contends that the lawsuit should be dismissed, citing previous judgments that support Jonathan's eligibility. The AGF, represented by Maimuna Lamin Shiru, also requested the court to dismiss the suit entirely.

The plaintiff's arguments regarding standing and the nature of the lawsuit were countered by Jonathan's legal team.