I won’t Run Against But Will Campaign With You, Patience Jonathan Assures Oluremi Tinubu Over 2027

Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has foreclosed any possibility running against President Ahmed Tinubu or returning to Aso Rock Villa, instead throwing her weight behind the current First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at an award ceremony where she received the Women Icon Leader of the Year award from Accolade Dynamics Limited, Jonathan emphasized her commitment to the principle of rotational leadership, describing the “turn-by-turn” model as essential for national unity.

“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,” she stated.

Jonathan, known for her candid views, also acknowledged the President’s daughter and Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, and expressed her support for the First Lady, with whom she has a longstanding relationship that predates their time in Aso Rock.

The former First Lady recalled how Senator Oluremi Tinubu and her husband, President Bola Tinubu, supported her and her husband during their presidential campaign in 2011.

She insisted that rather than return to Aso Rock, she would campaign alongside the First Lady and support her husband.

“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,” Jonathan said.

Jonathan also threw her weight behind the 35 per cent affirmative action for women in governance, lamenting the repeated rejection of gender equality bills by the National Assembly. She described the honour as a recognition of collective efforts in the advancement of women’s health and economic well-being.

The award ceremony, which took place on Saturday night, was attended by dignitaries and women leaders from across the country. The Managing Director and CEO of Accolade Dynamics, Ms. Dofan Chizaram, described the night as a tribute to both men and women who have significantly impacted Nigeria and the African continent through leadership, mentorship, and community development.

“This night is about celebrating the legends who have uplifted women and the broader community. We want to acknowledge their value while they are still with us,” Chizaram said.