Patience Jonathan Declares Full Support for Remi Tinubu, Rules Out Return to Aso Rock

Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has stated unequivocally that she has no intention of returning to Aso Rock, affirming instead her full support for First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking during an award event in Abuja on Sunday, Jonathan expressed her commitment to the principle of rotational leadership and pledged her loyalty to the current administration.

“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 said, emphasizing the need for unity and fairness in leadership transitions.

Dame Jonathan also commended Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria and daughter of President Bola Tinubu, for her dedication to women’s empowerment. Reaffirming her support, she added: “No shaking. We will follow. Direct us, and we will follow.”

Reflecting on her personal relationship with Remi Tinubu, the former First Lady revealed that their bond dates back to well before their tenures in Aso Rock.

“I didn’t just meet her because she’s the First Lady — no, we have a history. We worked together as a group. Even when my husband was Vice President, Remi stood by her husband and supported us during our first election in 2011,” Jonathan recounted.

Highlighting her unwavering loyalty, she stressed: “I have a conscience. I cannot abandon my friend, whether you like it or not. I stand by my friend. She is great. I told her I will campaign with her. I’m not denying her. I’m not running, and I’m not going back to the villa. Even if you call me, I will not go.”

Her remarks have been interpreted as a significant endorsement of the Tinubu administration and a strong signal of unity among Nigeria’s political first families.