Former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, has opened up about the burdensome nature of life in the Presidential Villa (Aso Rock), declaring emphatically that she will not return—even if given the opportunity. At a recent event in Abuja where she received the Women Icon Leader of the Year 2025 award, Jonathan said the toll of living under national scrutiny was too great, stressing that the “stress of Nigeria is so much.”
Jonathan, who held the role of First Lady from 2010 to 2015 (preceded by years of political life during her husband’s vice presidency), reflected that leaving office brought her more peace, a lighter spirit, and a rejuvenated sense of self. She said she feels “younger” now, attributing the change to being free from the constant demands that accompany office.
Her refusal to return to Aso Rock is connected to her firm belief in the principle of “turn-by-turn” leadership—rotational governance—as a path toward national unity. Jonathan emphasized that when it is not one’s time, they should step aside so the country can move forward without division or overreach.
In that same speech, she pledged her support to the incumbent First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in the build-up to the 2027 general elections. Jonathan said their friendship predates current political affiliations, noting that Remi Tinubu stood by her and her husband during earlier political campaigns. Her endorsement thus signals a political realignment, one grounded in personal loyalty and shared values rather than ambition for office.
Jonathan also spoke poignantly about what she’s gained since leaving office—rest, peace, love, and space to live without constant attention. She made it clear that her earlier life in the Villa involved burdens not everyone sees: the pressure, obligations, and the ceaseless expectations that come with symbolic leadership.
Her comments come amid ongoing speculation about whether she or her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, might return to political prominence, especially ahead of the 2027 elections. By rejecting a return to Aso Rock, she appears to be drawing a line between her past role and her future engagement, choosing advocacy and support over personal power.
