Lawyer Drags Jonathan, INEC To Court Over 2027 Presidential Bid
A lawyer, Mr Johnmary Chukwukasi Jideobi, has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking an order to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or publishing the name of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as a presidential candidate in the 2027 general election.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, also seeks a perpetual injunction restraining Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party for the purpose of contesting the 2027 presidential election or any future polls.
Jonathan is listed as the first defendant, while INEC and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) are the second and third defendants, respectively.
In his application, Jideobi asked the court to determine whether, in line with the provisions of Sections 1(1), (2), (3), and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Jonathan is eligible to contest for the office of President under any circumstances.
The lawyer is also seeking a declaration that Jonathan is constitutionally barred from contesting or occupying the office of President again and that INEC lacks the power to accept or publish his name as a candidate in any presidential election, including the 2027 polls.
He further requested an order of perpetual injunction restraining Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party for nomination as its presidential candidate and preventing INEC from accepting or publishing his name in connection with any such election.
Additionally, the plaintiff asked the court to compel the Attorney General of the Federation to ensure full compliance with any decision or order made by the court on the matter.
In an affidavit supporting the suit, one Emmanuel Agida stated that Jideobi, an advocate of constitutionalism and the rule of law, filed the action to safeguard the constitutional provisions limiting presidential tenure.
He argued that permitting Jonathan to contest and potentially serve another term from 2027 to 2031 would violate the constitutional limit of eight years in office for any individual.
The case is expected to be assigned a hearing date by the Federal High Court in the coming weeks.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
