In a decisive political statement, former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has declared she has no intentions of returning to the presidential villa, offering instead full-throated support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.
Speaking Saturday night in Abuja while receiving the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award, Jonathan described Tinubu as a “wonderful president” and endorsed the principle of rotational leadership that underpins Nigeria’s political equilibrium. “When it’s your turn, I will support you. When it’s not your turn, step back—so the country can move forward,” she told the audience, which included Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the president’s daughter.
The former first lady revealed her longstanding political relationship with current First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, tracing their bond to their early days as wives of state governors. “We worked together when I was deputy governor’s wife, when I was governor’s wife,” Jonathan recalled. “Even during our first presidential election, the Tinubus supported us. I cannot abandon my friend.”
Jonathan humorously dismissed speculation about her political ambitions, joking about teasing the current first lady from the sidelines. “Don’t you like how young I look? It’s because I have peace of mind,” she said, drawing laughter. “I’m not going back to the villa. If you call me, I will not go.”
The event also served as a platform for Jonathan to advocate for gender equality in governance, expressing frustration over the National Assembly’s repeated rejection of affirmative action bills. “During Obasanjo’s time, we achieved 35% representation in appointments. But elective positions remain dominated by men,” she noted, appealing to lawmakers to recognize women as partners in nation-building.
Accepting her award, Jonathan dedicated the honor to all Nigerian women working toward economic empowerment and better healthcare. Her remarks come amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, with her endorsement signaling continued support from influential political blocs for the Tinubu administration.
The former first lady’s declaration effectively quashes rumors about her potential involvement in the next election cycle while reinforcing the political solidarity among Nigeria’s influential women leaders. Analysts view her statements as both a personal affirmation and a strategic positioning within the country’s complex political landscape.
