2027 Tension Deepens As Jonathan Weighs Presidential Bid, Court Moves To Block Return

Fresh political uncertainty emerged on Thursday as former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan hinted at a possible return to presidential politics ahead of the 2027 general elections, while a Federal High Court in Abuja prepared to hear a suit challenging his eligibility to contest.

Jonathan stirred renewed speculation during a meeting with members of the Coalition for Jonathan 2027 in Abuja, where supporters urged him to join the presidential race and rescue the country from worsening political and security challenges.

The delegation, led by Tom Ohikere, appealed to the former president to obtain nomination forms from a political party of his choice and formally declare his ambition.

Responding to the calls, Jonathan avoided making a direct commitment but said he would engage in broad consultations before taking any decision.

“The presidential race is not a computer game. But I have heard you, and I will consult widely,” the former president stated.

Jonathan used the occasion to stress the importance of patriotism, peace, and national unity, while also calling on Nigerian youths to participate more actively in the democratic process.

He lamented the country’s low voter turnout despite its large population and urged young Nigerians to register and vote during elections.

“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” Jonathan said, adding that the future of Nigeria must be built with the interests of younger generations in mind.

However, the renewed speculation around Jonathan’s political future has already triggered legal opposition.

A Federal High Court in Abuja fixed Friday, May 8, 2026, to hear a suit seeking to stop the former president from contesting the 2027 election.

The case, filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, is asking the court to declare Jonathan constitutionally ineligible to seek the presidency again.

The plaintiff also requested an order restraining Jonathan from contesting under any political party and preventing the Independent National Electoral Commission from accepting or publishing his name as a candidate.

Jonathan, INEC, and the Attorney-General of the Federation were listed as defendants in the suit.

According to court documents, the plaintiff argued that if Jonathan contests and wins the election, he would effectively be sworn in for a third presidential term, which he claims violates constitutional provisions.

The affidavit supporting the suit, deposed to by Emmanuel Agida, said the action was filed in the public interest to protect constitutional order and uphold the rule of law.

The development adds another layer of intrigue to the evolving 2027 political landscape, as major parties and political blocs intensify consultations, defections, and strategic alliances ahead of the next presidential election.