Headline:
“Court to Rule on Jonathan’s 2027 Eligibility as Lawyer Seeks Presidential Bid Block”
Subheading:
Former Nigerian President Faces Legal Challenge Over Constitutional Term Limits
Abuja, Nigeria – A Federal High Court in Abuja has set May 26 as the date to deliver a crucial ruling on whether former President Goodluck Jonathan can legally run for office again in 2027. The decision follows a lawsuit filed by Abuja-based lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, who argues that Jonathan’s previous tenure disqualifies him under Nigeria’s constitutional term limits.
Legal Battle Over Presidential Eligibility
Jideobi’s suit hinges on Section 137(3) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which bars any individual from serving as president for more than two terms. He contends that Jonathan, who completed the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s term in 2010 and later won re-election in 2011, has already exhausted his eligibility.
Jonathan’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Chris Uche, has pushed back, calling the lawsuit a politically motivated attempt to disqualify the former leader. Uche cited previous court rulings—including Andy Solomon v. Jonathan and Cyracus Njoku v. Jonathan—where similar challenges were dismissed.
“This is litigation weaponized for political exclusion,” Uche argued, demanding N50 million in damages for what he termed a frivolous case.
Judge Under Scrutiny
In a dramatic twist, Jideobi also filed an application requesting Justice Peter Lifu to recuse himself, alleging bias. The lawyer claims the court unfairly shortened the 14-day response window for Jonathan’s legal team to file a counter-affidavit.
The Attorney-General’s office, represented by Dr. Maimuna Lamin Shiru, backed Jonathan’s motion to dismiss the case, emphasizing that Jideobi failed to prove direct personal harm—a key requirement for legal standing.
Constitutional Debate
Central to the dispute is whether constitutional amendments apply retroactively. Jonathan’s camp insists that the term-limit clause cannot be enforced against his 2015 re-election bid, as the provision was not in effect during his initial presidency.
Legal experts are divided. Some argue the constitution’s intent is clear: no president should serve beyond two terms, regardless of timing. Others say retroactive enforcement sets a dangerous precedent.
What’s Next?
With the May 26 ruling looming, the case could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape. If the court sides with Jideobi, Jonathan’s potential 2027 bid would be legally blocked. A dismissal, however, could pave the way for his return to the ballot.
Observers warn that the outcome may trigger further litigation, as debates over term limits remain a contentious issue in Nigerian politics.
Reported by Nexio News
