The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday reprimanded Johnmary Jideobi and his lawyer, Ndubuisi Ukpai, for failing to diligently pursue a lawsuit seeking to bar former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election.
Justice Peter Lifu, who presided over the matter, described the plaintiff and counsel’s conduct as “unacceptable”, and imposed a N1 million fine in favor of Jonathan. The judge emphasised that political cases require accelerated hearing to avoid delays in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable.
The court noted that Jideobi filed the case on October 6, 2025, yet had failed to serve INEC and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) for over six months. Neither Jideobi nor Ukpai appeared in court on Friday, despite previously scheduling a hearing.
The lawyer for former President Jonathan, Chief Chris Uche, SAN, criticized the plaintiff and his counsel for ignoring court procedures, filing a politically sensitive suit, and abandoning the matter. Uche stated that the plaintiff’s behavior showed disdain for the judiciary and requested disciplinary action.
The AGF’s lawyer, J.D. Esho, also confirmed her office had not received the plaintiff’s originating summons, while the court registrar verified that INEC had not been properly served.
Midway through the session, Ukpai appeared, apologizing for being late due to vehicle issues. After considering submissions from all parties, Justice Lifu adjourned the case to May 18 for a definite hearing of all pending applications and the substantive suit.
