Former President Goodluck Jonathan will not be running for the presidency in 2027, according to his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan. This announcement was made during a visit by the Greater Igbo Forum (GIF) to the former First Lady in Abuja.
Dame Patience Jonathan hosted the GIF, led by its President, Ambassador Lois Jonathan. During the visit, she addressed speculations about her husband’s future political ambitions.
She clarified that Goodluck Jonathan, who has held various high offices including local government chairman, deputy governor, governor, vice president, and president, has no intention of seeking the presidency again.
“My husband has been local government chairman, deputy governor, governor, vice president, president. What is he looking for again?” Dame Patience Jonathan asked. She emphasized that they have no plans to return to active politics.
She reiterated their commitment to supporting the current administration for the peace and progress of the country. “Whoever is there, we support 100% because of the sake of my country,” she said.
She stressed the importance of loving the country for the future of their children. “If you don’t love this country, what is the future of our children? Then our children don’t have hope,” she added.
Dame Jonathan also used the occasion to urge unity among the Igbo people. She emphasized that development thrives in a peaceful environment. “Let us manage one another. Let us love ourselves. Let us be united and be our brother’s keepers,” she said.
She called on the Igbo people to put aside political differences and focus on their genuine interests. “Set politics aside. Take Igbo as first thing,” she urged.
She highlighted the need for unity, saying, “We should be able to protect one another. Love one another. We should live in a peaceful atmosphere within ourselves.”
Dame Patience Jonathan appealed to the Igbo community to forget past grievances and work together. “Whatever your sister did to you, whatever your brother did to you, let us love one another. Let us unite,” she said.
She emphasized that unity is essential for achieving collective goals. “We cannot achieve anything without unity,” she added.
The former First Lady also encouraged mutual support among the Igbo people. “Support that your brother. Stand by your brother. It’s better that way,” she advised.
Goodluck Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015. His presidency was marked by various challenges, including issues related to security and economic development.
