A Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to deliver judgment today, May 26, 2026, in a suit challenging the eligibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election.

Justice Peter Lifu will rule on whether Jonathan, who previously took the presidential oath of office twice before leaving office in 2015, can lawfully seek election and be sworn in again as President of Nigeria.

The case comes amid renewed political discussions surrounding Jonathan’s possible return to active politics ahead of the 2027 general election.

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The suit was filed by Johnmary Jideobi, who is asking the court to restrain Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party as a presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

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

According to the suit, the court is being asked to interpret Sections 1(1), 1(2), 1(3), and 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution regarding presidential term limits and eligibility.

PDP Waiver Fuels Speculation

The legal battle comes shortly after a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reportedly led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, offered Jonathan a waiver to emerge as the party’s sole presidential candidate.

The move intensified speculation about the former president’s possible return to the presidential race.

Jonathan served as Nigeria’s President from 2010 to 2015 after first assuming office following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2010 and later winning the 2011 presidential election.

Awaiting Final Judgment

Justice Lifu had earlier heard arguments from both the plaintiff and defence counsel before fixing May 26 for judgment.

The ruling is expected to clarify the constitutional interpretation surrounding Jonathan’s eligibility and could have major implications for the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.