Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has firmly dismissed any plans to return to Aso Rock Villa in 2027, declaring her full support for President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Speaking at the Women Icon Leader of the Year award ceremony held by Accolade Dynamics Limited in Abuja on Saturday night, Jonathan praised Tinubu’s daughter, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, for her role in empowering women. She expressed admiration for the Tinubu family and reaffirmed her commitment to backing the current administration.
“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,” Jonathan said, emphasizing her respect for democratic succession.
Recalling her longstanding friendship with Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Jonathan highlighted their history of collaboration dating back to when she was a deputy governor’s wife and later a governor’s wife. She credited Oluremi and President Tinubu for supporting her and her late husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, during their 2011 presidential campaign.
Jonathan stated unequivocally, “I stand by my friend. My friend is great. I told her I would campaign with her. I’m not denying her. I’m not running. I’m not going back to the villa. If you call me, I will not go.”
Her remarks signal a clear endorsement of the Tinubu administration and a commitment to actively campaign for their re-election bid, while putting to rest speculation about her political ambitions for 2027.
