Court Adjourns Jonathan Disqualification Suit to May 2026

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned a suit that seeks to disqualify former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting in the 2027 presidential election until May 11, 2026. The adjournment was made by Justice Peter Lifu on Friday, following a request from the plaintiff's counsel, Ndubuisi Ukpai, who indicated the need for time to respond to preliminary objections filed by the defense.

Jonathan's counsel, Chri Uch, SAN, informed the court that he became aware of the case through media reports and is working to ensure that the necessary processes are properly filed on behalf of the former president. The case raises questions about Jonathan's eligibility to contest based on the 1999 constitution, particularly regarding whether he is barred from running again after completing the tenure of former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua.

The plaintiff, represented by lawyer Johnmari Jideobi, is seeking a declaration that Jonathan is constitutionally ineligible to contest and an order restraining him from being accepted as a candidate by INEC.