Patience Jonathan Endorses Remi Tinubu, Pledges Support for President Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election
Abuja, May 12, 2025 – In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan has publicly endorsed First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and pledged to campaign for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election. She also firmly ruled out any return to the presidency for her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, emphasizing her commitment to the principle of rotational leadership and longstanding personal ties with the Tinubu family.
“Turn-by-Turn” Principle and National Unity
Speaking at the Women Icon Leader of the Year Award ceremony in Abuja, Patience Jonathan stressed her belief in the “turn-by-turn” model of leadership, which she described as essential for national unity and political stability. “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 declared, underscoring her support for President Tinubu’s second term and her refusal to back any move for her husband’s return to Aso Rock.
Longstanding Relationship with Remi Tinubu
Patience Jonathan recounted her longstanding relationship with Senator Oluremi Tinubu, which dates back to her time as deputy governor’s wife in Bayelsa State. She highlighted how the Tinubus supported her family during Goodluck Jonathan’s presidential bid in 2011 and described Oluremi Tinubu as a true friend and ally. “I didn’t just know her because she’s the First Lady, no. We worked together as a group even before our time in Abuja. I cannot abandon my friend, whether you like it or not,” she said.
Rejects Calls for Jonathan’s 2027 Candidacy
Addressing recent calls for former President Jonathan to contest in 2027, Patience Jonathan firmly dismissed the idea, stating her family would instead campaign for the Tinubus. “There is only one president at a time. We don’t have two presidents. If I don’t like something, I will say it. But if I like something, I die with it,” she said, making it clear she prefers to support the current administration rather than seek a return to political office.
Commitment to Women’s Political Participation
The former First Lady also voiced her support for greater women’s participation in governance, expressing disappointment at the National Assembly’s repeated rejection of gender equality bills. She called on women to rally behind Remi Tinubu and ensure their voices are heard in the political process.
Political Implications
Patience Jonathan’s endorsement is seen as a boost for President Tinubu’s re-election campaign, signaling growing support from influential figures across party lines. Her stance also reflects a broader call for political stability and unity as Nigeria approaches the 2027 polls.
