Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has made it clear that she has no plans to return to Aso Rock, throwing her full support behind First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in Abuja on Saturday night after receiving the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award from Accolade Dynamics Limited, Jonathan reaffirmed her commitment to rotational leadership, stressing that the “turn-by-turn” approach is essential for national unity.
“I believe in one president. I believe in turn-by-turn. When it’s your turn, I will support you. When it’s not your turn, step back—so that the country can move forward,” she stated.
Acknowledging Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s Iyaloja-General, Jonathan thanked her for her support of women and emphasized loyalty to the current administration. “All the way, we are with you. No shaking. We will follow. Direct us, and we will follow,” she said.
She reminisced about her longstanding friendship with Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which dates back to their time as wives of governors and deputies, highlighting shared political experiences and mutual support. “We worked when I was a deputy governor’s wife. We worked when I was a governor’s wife. I know her,” she said, underscoring her loyalty.
Jonathan dismissed any speculation about a political comeback, saying, “I’m not running. I’m not going back to the villa. If you call me, I will not go.” She humorously attributed her youthful appearance to a stress-free life and teased the current First Lady about taking on the challenges she once faced.
She also used the event to advocate for the 35 percent affirmative action for women in governance, expressing frustration with the National Assembly’s continued rejection of gender equality legislation. “We are not trying to take power from them—we are trying to support them,” she emphasized.
In her acceptance speech, Jonathan dedicated the award to all who have worked alongside her to promote women’s welfare and economic development. “I accept this honour not just as a personal recognition, but as a testament to the tireless efforts of countless women and men,” she said.
What you should know
Dame Patience Jonathan, Nigeria’s former First Lady, has publicly endorsed current First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and emphasized her commitment to rotational leadership.
She ruled out any return to politics, reaffirmed her support for women’s inclusion in governance, and expressed pride in receiving the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award.
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