By Prosper Mene
Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has publicly declared her support for President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, firmly dismissing any intentions of returning to the Presidential Villa. Speaking at the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award ceremony hosted by Accolade Dynamics Limited in Abuja on Saturday night, Jonathan emphasized her commitment to national unity through rotational leadership and her longstanding personal ties with the Tinubu family.
“I’m not going back to the Villa. If you call me, I will not go,” Jonathan stated, addressing speculations about her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, potentially running for president in 2027. She expressed unwavering support for President Tinubu, whom she described as a “wonderful president,” and pledged to campaign alongside Senator Oluremi Tinubu. “I stand by my friend. My friend is great. I told her I would campaign with her. I’m not running,” she added.
Jonathan emphasized her deep-rooted relationship with Senator Tinubu, noting their collaboration as wives of deputy governors and governors, predating their time in Aso Rock. “I didn’t just know her because she’s the First Lady. We worked together even when I was a deputy governor’s wife. Even when my husband was vice president, Oluremi stood with her husband and supported us during our first presidential election,” she said, citing her loyalty.
The former First Lady also reiterated her belief in a “turn-by-turn” leadership model, which she views as essential for Nigeria’s unity. “I believe in one president. 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 said, addressing the audience, which included Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, President Tinubu’s daughter and Iyaloja-General of Nigeria. Jonathan praised Tinubu-Ojo for her advocacy for women, urging her to continue supporting Nigerian women.
Reflecting on her award, Jonathan dedicated the honor to those who have worked with her to advance women’s health and economic empowerment through her NGOs, the Aurora Richard Foundation and Women for Change and Development Initiative. “This award is a testament to the tireless efforts of countless women and men who have worked alongside me,” she said.
Jonathan also used the platform to advocate for 35% affirmative action for women in governance, expressing disappointment over the National Assembly’s repeated rejection of gender equality bills. She recalled the policy’s adoption under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and its continuation during her husband’s administration, urging lawmakers to reconsider their stance.
Her remarks come amid speculations that some political groups, particularly in the North, have been urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidency. However, Jonathan’s unequivocal stance has put such rumors to rest, signaling her family’s support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The event, attended by prominent figures, was described by Accolade Dynamics’ Managing Director, Ms. Dofan Chizaram, as a tribute to leaders who have impacted Nigeria through mentorship and community development. Jonathan’s endorsement of Tinubu and her call for unity will likely resonate as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 polls.
