JUSTICE Peter Lifu of 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 following the absence of both the plaintiff and his counsel in court.
News Point Nigeria reports the the judge subsequently fixed May 15, 2026, for the next hearing and warned that punitive costs could be awarded against the plaintiff if there is another failure to appear before the court.
During proceedings, counsel to the defendant, Chris Uche, SAN, drew the attention of the court to the absence of the plaintiff, noting that the matter had previously been adjourned at the plaintiff’s instance.
Justice Lifu thereafter asked the court registrar whether any formal communication explaining the plaintiff’s absence had been received.
The registrar informed the court that no such letter or communication was before the court.
Issues concerning the service of hearing notices also arose during the proceedings, as it was revealed that the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Attorney-General of the Federation had not been served, contrary to an earlier court order issued on May 8.
Counsel to the defendant maintained his application urging the court to strike out the matter, arguing that even where parties have exchanged processes and issues have been joined, the court still retains the authority to dismiss or strike out a case for lack of diligent prosecution.
He further submitted that the plaintiff had a responsibility to ensure proper service of all court processes and hearing notices, especially in a matter of public importance involving the eligibility of a former president to seek elective office.
According to him, records before the court showed that both INEC and the AGF had neither been properly served nor filed any response in the suit.
Uche also urged the court to impose punitive costs on the plaintiff for failing to attend the proceedings without explanation.
However, Justice Lifu opted to grant the plaintiff another opportunity and adjourned the matter to May 15, 2026.
The court also directed that all parties be duly served before the next hearing date.
Justice Lifu further noted that the issue of costs would be considered during the course of proceedings if the plaintiff fails to take the necessary steps before the adjourned date.