Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has ruled out the possibility of her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, contesting the 2027 presidential election, declaring instead her full support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

Speaking in Abuja over the weekend after receiving the ‘Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025’ award from Accolades Dynamics Limited, she stated that it was time to reciprocate the support she and her husband received from the Tinubu family in 2011.

Her remarks were directed partly at the President’s daughter and Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, who was also present at the event.

Although Jonathan has not indicated interest in returning to office, there have been persistent calls from various political groups, including the Nigeria Rescue Mission Organisation, urging him to run. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi had earlier said he would step aside from any 2027 presidential ambition if Jonathan declared.

Patience Jonathan, however, firmly shut the door on such speculation.

“I believe in turn-by-turn leadership. When it’s your turn, I’ll support you. When it’s not, step back,” she said.

She praised the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for her longstanding friendship and support during her time in public service, noting that they worked together long before their husbands became president.

On the possibility of returning as First Lady, she was categorical: “I’m not going back to the villa. If you call me, I won’t go. I now have peace of mind, and it shows.”

She also reiterated her commitment to 35% affirmative action for women in leadership, lamenting that gender equality bills continue to face resistance in the National Assembly.

“This award is not just for me but for all who have worked to improve women’s health and economic wellbeing in Nigeria,” she said while thanking the organisers.