Tension Rises As Ex-President Jonathan’s 2027 Plans Spark Legal Firestorm

A legal showdown is looming as a Nigerian lawyer, Johnmary Chukwukasi Jideobi, has dragged former President Goodluck Jonathan before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to stop him from contesting the 2027 presidential election or any other future polls.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In the suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, Jideobi is asking the court to issue a perpetual injunction barring Jonathan from presenting himself as a candidate under any political platform, while also restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or publishing his name. The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) was joined as a third defendant.

The lawyer argued that a “holistic interpretation” of Sections 1(1), (2), (3), and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) disqualifies Jonathan, on the grounds that he has already been sworn in as president twice.

“Jonathan is constitutionally ineligible, having first completed the unexpired tenure of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2010, and later serving a full term after winning the 2011 election,” the suit contends.

Jideobi further maintained that allowing Jonathan to contest again would breach the constitutional limit of two presidential tenures. He is also seeking orders compelling INEC and the AGF to enforce any ruling the court may issue.

Plaintiff’s Argument

In an affidavit sworn by Emmanuel Agida, described as an advocate of constitutionalism and rule of law, the plaintiff noted that media reports linking Jonathan to a 2027 comeback prompted the legal action. He argued that if Jonathan were to contest and win, it would mean he would be taking the presidential oath for a third time, which he says is unconstitutional.

The plaintiff emphasized his legal duty to defend the supremacy of the Constitution, stating:

“This action is instituted in the public interest, to preserve constitutional integrity and prevent any individual from unlawfully exceeding the tenure limits set by law.”

Background

Jonathan, who ruled Nigeria between 2010 and 2015, has been at the centre of recurring legal debates over his eligibility to run again. In 2022, similar lawsuits were filed after speculations linked him to a possible presidential bid under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The controversy stems from the Fourth Alteration Act, which amended Section 137(3) of the Constitution to bar anyone sworn in as president twice from seeking the office again.

So far, neither Jonathan nor his media team has responded to the suit. INEC and the AGF’s office have also remained silent.

Analysts believe the case could reignite heated political and constitutional battles ahead of the 2027 elections.