The Digest:
Hearing in a suit seeking to stop former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election suffered a setback on Monday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, as no counsel appeared for the plaintiff, INEC, or the Attorney-General of the Federation. Only Jonathan's lawyer, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), was present. Uche applied for the matter to be struck out for lack of diligent prosecution, arguing that the plaintiff had lost interest in pursuing the case. Justice Peter Lifu adjourned the matter until May 15 for a definite hearing, ordering that hearing notices be served on all parties for the last time.
Key Points:
- The plaintiff's absence from court suggests a waning interest in the legal challenge against Jonathan.
- Jonathan's legal team is seeking to have the suit dismissed with substantial costs.
- The court has given the plaintiff and other defendants a final chance to appear on May 15.
- If the suit is dismissed, Jonathan's path to the 2027 presidential race becomes clearer.
Sources: NAN / Vanguard
