The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned proceedings in the suit challenging the eligibility of former President, Goodluck Jonathan, to contest the 2027 presidential election.
News360 Info reports that Justice Peter Lifu fixed May 15, 2026, for the next hearing, following the plaintiff’s and his counsel’s absence from court.
The judge warned that punitive costs may be awarded against the plaintiff if there is another failure to appear.
During Monday’s proceedings, counsel to Jonathan, Chris Uche (SAN), drew the court’s attention to the absence of the plaintiff. Uche noted that the matter had earlier been adjourned at the instance of the plaintiff.
The court then asked the registrar whether any formal communication had been received explaining the absence of the plaintiff or his counsel.
The registrar replied that no such letter was before the court. Issues relating to the service of hearing notices also came up during proceedings.
It was revealed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) had not been served, contrary to an earlier order made by the court on May 8.
Jonathan’s counsel maintained his application for the suit to be struck out.
He argued that even where parties had exchanged processes and issues had been joined, the court still had the power to dismiss or strike out a matter for lack of diligent prosecution.
Uche said the plaintiff had a duty to ensure proper service of court processes and hearing notices, especially in a matter of public importance involving the eligibility of a former president to seek office.
According to him, the court file showed that INEC and the AGF had neither been properly served nor filed any response in the suit.
He urged the court to impose punitive costs on the plaintiff for failing to attend proceedings without explanation.
Justice Lifu, however, opted to give the plaintiff another opportunity to appear. The court adjourned the matter till May 15, 2026, and directed that all parties be duly served before the next hearing.
The judge said the issue of costs would be considered during proceedings if the plaintiff failed to take the necessary steps.
