Former President Goodluck Jonathan has moved to challenge a lawsuit seeking to block him from the 2027 presidential race. His legal team filed the objection at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday.
Jonathan's counsel, Chief Chris Uche, told Justice Peter Lifu that they'd submitted all necessary documents on May 5. These included a conditional letter of appearance, preliminary objection notice, counter affidavit, and written address.
Uche explained they learned of the suit through media reports. He stressed the urgency given the case's significance to Jonathan's eligibility to run.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria pointed out something troubling. A lawyer, he argued, should know this matter was already settled by lower and appellate courts.
Jideobi, the plaintiff's counsel, told the court this was merely a mention hearing. He'd only just received Jonathan's filed documents, he said.
Ndubuisi Ukpai, representing the plaintiff, requested more time to respond. Justice Lifu granted the request without hesitation.
The judge scheduled the next proceedings for May 11 at 2 p.m. He'll hear arguments on Jonathan's objection and the main case then.
Lifu also ordered that hearing notices reach INEC and Nigeria's Attorney-General. Both are listed as second and third defendants.
Lawyer Johnmary Jideobi initiated this case back in October 2025. His suit number is FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025.
Jideobi wants the court to bar Jonathan permanently from contesting. He's seeking a perpetual injunction against the former leader.
In his arguments, Jideobi cited constitutional provisions as grounds. He believes Jonathan shouldn't be allowed to approach any political party for nomination.
Additionally, Jideobi asked the court to restrain INEC from processing Jonathan's candidacy. He wants INEC barred from accepting or publishing his name as a nominated candidate.
Jonathan stands as the first defendant in the case. INEC and the Attorney-General of the Federation are second and third defendants respectively.
Court documents show Jideobi filed the suit on October 6, 2025. The case has already drawn significant public attention.
This legal battle represents an attempt to address eligibility questions ahead of 2027. Observers are watching closely how the court will handle the matter.
