Jonathan's Wife Wants First Lady's Office To Be In Constitution

The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan has called for the recognition of the office of the First Lady in the constitution of Nigeria. The wife of the president, who was sworn in as a Perm Sec in Bayelsa State on Friday, said she and wives of other political office holders are working hard.

Speaking about her "controversial" appointment, the first lady said:

“I want to tell Nigerians to be patient. During the time of His Excellency, the former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, his wife was a Judge throughout his tenure. During the time of former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, the wife was a Judge.

"The wife of the Governor of Adamawa State is a serving judge. When the former Minister of Information, Prof. Dora Akunyili was in government, she was promoted as a Professor in the University.

"When Prof Jerry Gana was a Minister of Information, he was promoted to the position of a Professor by his university.”

She said in view of the significance of the roles played by the wives of political office holders, their offices should be recognized to enable them have benefits at the end of their husband’s tenure.