Breaking: Court clears Goodluck Jonathan to contest 2027 presidential election

An Abuja Federal High Court has ruled that former President Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to contest in the 2027 presidential election, effectively dismissing a suit that sought to bar him from participating in the race.

The case was instituted by Johnmary Jideobi, who approached the court seeking an order restraining Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party as a presidential candidate in 2027.

The plaintiff also asked the court to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission from accepting, processing, or publishing Jonathan’s name as a candidate.

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In his arguments, Jideobi urged the court to interpret relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution, including Sections 1(1), (2), (3) and 137(3), to determine whether Jonathan remains constitutionally qualified to seek the office of President again after previously serving in that capacity.

The matter comes amid political developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where a faction led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki had reportedly offered Jonathan a waiver as its preferred presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

Delivering judgment on Tuesday, Justice Peter Lifu held that Jonathan is not barred from participating in the presidential contest and can legally present himself as a candidate in the forthcoming election.

The ruling is expected to further intensify early political maneuvering and alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.