Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has thrown her full weight behind First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, declaring her unwavering support as Nigeria moves toward 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 addressed speculation about her possible return to politics and emphatically ruled out any political comeback.
“I am not returning to Aso Rock. If you call me, I will not go,” she declared to a room filled with women leaders, politicians, and well-wishers.
She used the opportunity to reaffirm her commitment to rotational leadership, a principle she said is essential for sustaining peace and national cohesion in a diverse country like Nigeria.
A Longstanding Bond with the First Lady
Dame Patience Jonathan reflected on her deep-rooted relationship with Senator Oluremi Tinubu, tracing it back to their time as wives of state governors and deputy governors.
“I didn’t just meet her because she’s now the First Lady. No. We’ve worked together in the past — when I was a deputy governor’s wife, a governor’s wife, even during my husband’s time as Vice President. Oluremi and her husband stood by us. For that, I cannot turn my back on her,” she stated.
The former First Lady added that friendship and loyalty guide her decisions, stressing that she will stand by her longtime ally as she navigates her role as Nigeria’s First Lady.
“I told her I would campaign with her. I’m not hiding. I’m not going anywhere. I stand by my friend. My friend is great.”
A Nod to the Tinubu Legacy
Mrs. Jonathan also praised Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Tinubu and the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, for her continued advocacy for women’s empowerment.
“Iyaloja, thank you for standing by women. These are your women, carry them along. We’re with you, all the way. No shaking,” she said.
In her signature candid and spirited style, Patience Jonathan joked about enjoying her restful life outside of power:
“People say I look younger. Yes, because I have peace of mind. Let my friend stay there and enjoy the ‘wahala’ I once had. Now it’s my turn to tease her!”
Final Word: “One President at a Time”
Capping her remarks, Jonathan emphasized unity and respect for the sitting president and First Lady:
“There is only one president at a time. We don’t have two. I speak my mind — if I don’t like something, I’ll say it. But if I support something, I give it my all.”
Her remarks have drawn widespread praise for promoting political maturity, cross-party solidarity, and women’s leadership at the highest level.
