CurrentReport Blog In a recent public appearance that quickly went viral, Dame Patience Jonathan, former First Lady of Nigeria, unequivocally stated that she would decline any offer to return to the presidential villa in an official capacity. Speaking candidly on Friday, Mrs. Jonathan humorously remarked on the overwhelming stress associated with the role and expressed her contentment with her current life away from the political spotlight.
“The Stress of Nigeria is Too Much”
Addressing attendees at the event, Dame Patience Jonathan, known for her straightforward and relatable manner, highlighted the toll that her tenure as First Lady had taken on her well-being. She reflected on her experiences during her husband’s administration, noting, “The stress of Nigeria is too much. If God manages to bring you out of it, you should glorify Him. He has taken you there once, why do you want to go there again?”
Her remarks underscore the intense pressures and responsibilities that come with the high-profile position. The former First Lady emphasized her current sense of relief and rejuvenation, saying, “If you call me now for villa, I wouldn’t go there. I won’t. Don’t you see how young I am?”
A Look Back: Patience Jonathan’s Time in Office
Patience Jonathan, the wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, served as Nigeria’s First Lady from 2010 to 2015. Her tenure was marked by a distinct public persona that endeared her to many Nigerians. She became a cultural icon through her use of colorful and memorable expressions in Pidgin English, such as the famous phrase, “Na only you waka come?” which became a widely used meme.
Despite her departure from the presidential villa following President Goodluck Jonathan’s electoral defeat to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, Dame Patience remains a notable figure in Nigerian public life. Her recent comments have sparked conversations about the immense pressures faced by those in the highest echelons of power and the value of life after political office.
