The recent setback in the suit against former President Goodluck Jonathan isn’t as mysterious as it might seem. It was primarily a matter of “no-shows.”
The Federal High Court in Abuja had to stall proceedings for the delay was that the plaintiff, Johnmary Jideobi, and his legal team failed to appear in court. Additionally, the representatives for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) who are co-defendants alongside Jonathan were also absent.
Justice Peter Lifu noted that there was no evidence that the hearing notices had been properly served to INEC and the AGF. Without proof that these parties were officially notified of the court date, the judge couldn’t legally proceed with the hearing.
​Jonathan’s lead counsel, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), actually pushed for the case to be struck out or dismissed entirely. He argued that the plaintiff’s absence showed a “lack of diligent prosecution,” essentially suggesting they aren’t serious about the case. He even requested a fine of ₦5 million against the plaintiff.
The legal “wraps” around the core argument involve Section 137(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The plaintiff argues that Jonathan is ineligible because he was sworn in to complete the term of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua (2010).
Plaintiff also added that he was sworn in again after winning the 2011 election. Under current law, a person cannot be sworn into the office of President more than twice.
The judge decided to “bend backward” one last time in the interest of justice and adjourned the matter until May 15, 2026, for a “definite hearing.” If the plaintiff fails to show up then, the case will likely be dismissed.
