Patience Jonathan Rules Out Goodluck Jonathan’s 2027 Comeback, Declares Support for Tinubu’s Re-election

In a significant political declaration that may reshape alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, Patience Jonathan, wife of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, has firmly ruled out the possibility of her husband contesting for the presidency again. Instead, she pledged her family’s full support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking on Saturday at the Women Icon Leader of the Year Award ceremony organized by Accolade Dynamics Limited in Abuja, the former First Lady cited political loyalty, longstanding personal relationships, and the principle of political rotation—referred to as “turn-by-turn”—as her reasons for backing Tinubu.

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“It’s Not Our Turn”: Patience Jonathan Endorses Tinubu

Mrs Jonathan, who was honored at the event for her contributions to women’s empowerment and health advocacy, used the occasion to set the record straight amid growing calls for her husband to re-enter the political arena. She declared without ambiguity:

“I’m not running. I’m not going back to the villa. If you call me, I will not go.”

Her comments came in response to recent appeals, most notably from Dr. Jibril Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Rescue Mission Organisation, urging former President Jonathan to return to office in 2027. Mustapha had lauded Jonathan’s unifying influence and leadership qualities, saying his return could help steer the nation forward.

However, Patience Jonathan dismissed those appeals, emphasizing the need for political continuity and honoring past support.

“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 asserted.

The Tinubu-Jonathan Connection

A major highlight of her speech was the acknowledgment of President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s support for Jonathan during his 2011 presidential bid. Patience described the Tinubus as longstanding political allies who stood by her and her husband even before their time in the Presidency.

“We worked together. We worked as a group,” she said, recalling their collaboration dating back to when she served as the wife of a deputy governor and later as a governor’s wife. According to her, the Tinubus were instrumental during their early political journey, and such loyalty deserves reciprocation.

“I cannot abandon my friend, whether you like it or not,” she added. “Let my friend [Oluremi Tinubu] be there. Let me also ‘wahala’ her the way she used to ‘wahala’ me when I was there!”

Mrs Jonathan also humorously linked her vibrant appearance to life outside politics:

“People say, ‘Mama, you are young, you are young!’ It is because I have rest of mind.”

Supporting Women, Advocating Gender Equality

Aside from the political undertones, Patience Jonathan used the platform to advocate for greater inclusion of women in governance. She lamented the continued rejection of gender equality bills by the National Assembly, calling on Nigerian men to embrace women as partners in national development.

“We are their mothers, sisters, and friends. We are not trying to take power from them—we are trying to support them,” she said.

She reiterated her support for the 35% affirmative action policy, recalling how her husband’s administration endorsed it, following a similar move during President Obasanjo’s tenure.

Mrs Jonathan also highlighted the impact of her NGOs—the Aurora Richard Foundation and Women for Change and Development Initiative—which she said have provided skill acquisition programmes for women and youth, and sponsored surgeries for children with critical health conditions abroad.

 Recognition and Tribute

The award ceremony, which had dignitaries including Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of the President, in attendance, was not just a political event but a moment of tribute and reflection on leadership and legacy. Ms. Dofan Chizaram, CEO of Accolade Dynamics, noted that the evening was designed to honor both men and women making exceptional contributions to Nigeria and the African continent.

“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,” she said.

Patience Jonathan, in her acceptance speech, dedicated the award to the “tireless efforts of countless women and men who have worked alongside me to promote good health and economic development for women in Nigeria and beyond.”

 Speculation for 2027

With this public declaration, Patience Jonathan has effectively put an end to speculation surrounding Goodluck Jonathan’s possible 2027 comeback, choosing instead to publicly align her family’s support with President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. Her statement adds a new dimension to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, signaling that the 2027 race may feature unexpected alliances—and surprising endorsements.