Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has dismissed speculation about a possible political comeback for herself or her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking at an awards event in Abuja on Saturday, May 9, she made it clear she has no intention of returning to Aso Rock and offered her full support to current First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
“I’m not running. I’m not going back to the Villa. If you call me, I will not go. Let my friend be there. Let me also ‘wahala’ her the way she used to ‘wahala’ me when I was there!” she said humorously.
Her comments come amid reports that some political groups, especially in the North, are pushing for Goodluck Jonathan’s return in 2027. However, Patience Jonathan’s statements firmly suggest that neither she nor her husband is interested.
Emphasizing the importance of rotational leadership, she said, “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 also highlighted her long-standing friendship with Remi Tinubu, tracing it back to their time as wives of deputy governors and governors, and expressed loyalty to her, recalling the Tinubus’ support during the 2011 presidential campaign.
“I cannot abandon my friend, whether you like it or not,” she added.