Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has declared that she will not return to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, throwing her full support behind the current First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and praising President Bola Tinubu as a “wonderful” leader.
Speaking in Abuja at the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award ceremony organized by Accolade Dynamics Limited, Jonathan reiterated her belief in rotational leadership, calling it essential for preserving national unity. She emphasized the importance of supporting whoever holds office during their term, saying, “There is only one president at a time. We don’t have two presidents.”
Addressing the audience and acknowledging the presence of Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of the President, Jonathan said, “Iyaloja, thank you for standing with women… We are with you. No shaking. We will follow.” She praised Tinubu’s leadership and reaffirmed her commitment to the current administration, adding humorously, “I’m not running. I’m not going back to the villa. If you call me, I will not go.”
Reflecting on her long-standing friendship with Senator Tinubu, she recounted their relationship from the days when both were wives of governors and later national leaders. She described Remi Tinubu as a loyal friend who supported her during her husband’s time as Vice President and President, adding, “I cannot abandon my friend, whether you like it or not.”
Mrs. Jonathan also used the platform to advocate for increased female political representation, calling on lawmakers to support the 35% affirmative action for women. She lamented the National Assembly’s failure to pass gender equality bills and urged male politicians to view women as partners rather than rivals.
Accepting her award, she said, “I accept this honour not just as a personal recognition, but as a testament to the tireless efforts of countless women and men who have worked alongside me to promote good health and economic development for women in Nigeria and beyond.”
