‘Not returning to Aso Rock’ – Patience Jonathan declares support for Tinubu’s re-election
Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has publicly declared her intention not to return to Aso Rock Villa, pledging instead to campaign alongside current First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
During a ceremony in Abuja, where she received the Women Icon Leader of the Year award from Accolade Dynamics Limited, Jonathan expressed her commitment to the principle of rotational leadership. “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 took a moment to recognize Senator Tinubu’s support during challenging political times, emphasizing their longstanding friendship. “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,” she affirmed.
Reflecting on their shared history, she conveyed how their collaboration dates back to when both were involved in their husbands’ political campaigns, particularly during the 2011 presidential elections. “Today is my turn—I will go. Tomorrow, it will be another person’s turn,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of solidarity among women in leadership roles.
In a lighthearted moment, Jonathan added, “Don’t you like how young I look? People say, ‘Mama, you are young!’ It is because I have rest of mind.” She concluded with a humorous note, saying, “Let my friend be there. Let me also ‘wahala’ her the way she used to ‘wahala’ me when I was there!”
Source: Daily Trust
