The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, May 27, 2026, declared former President Goodluck Jonathan eligible to participate in the 2027 presidential election. The ruling came in response to a suit filed by the Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which sought to clarify Jonathan's constitutional eligibility.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, delivering the judgment, stated that Jonathan has not been disqualified by any provision of the Nigerian Constitution. The court emphasized that the former president, who served from 2010 to 2015, is not barred from seeking office again, as the constitution does not limit a person to two terms if they have not been elected twice.
The judgment has sparked reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of Jonathan, including the Turaki faction, hailed the decision as a victory for democracy, while critics argue it could disrupt the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Jonathan has not officially declared his intention to run, but the court's decision opens the door for his potential candidacy. Political analysts suggest this could reshape alliances within the PDP and the broader opposition.
