Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has explained why he rejected an appointment offer from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The outspoken politician said he chose to step away from government duties to focus on his personal life after several years in active politics.
Fayose made the disclosure on Wednesday while speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme.
He said that although he maintains a long-standing friendship with President Tinubu, he has no plans to take any position under the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
“Have you seen me taking appointment from the APC? Asiwaju asked me, ‘What would we give you?’ I said, ‘Nothing, sir,’” the former governor said.
Fayose, who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), added that at his age, he is more interested in living a quiet and responsible life rather than returning to political office.
“At 65, I’d rather be at home, being more responsible, doing other things that I need to do. I’ve served well. Two-time governor, I’ve done well. Tomorrow will hold itself,” Fayose stated.
He further stressed that friendship should not be mistaken for political loyalty. According to him, he remains a close ally of Tinubu but will not cross over to the APC.
“I’ve not been with APC, but I’ve been Asiwaju’s friend and brother for a long time. That is the truth,” he said.
Speaking on the 2027 presidential election, Fayose praised Labour Party’s flagbearer, Peter Obi, describing him as the only opposition figure currently commanding significant attention and credibility nationwide.
“Tell me who would defeat APC? The only opposition that I know that is in Nigeria. I am not saying that will win Asiwaju. The only person that has traction is Obi. Despite not being in government, he is the only one talking and everywhere. I give it to him,” he noted.
Fayose, however, avoided comparing Obi’s influence with that of former President Goodluck Jonathan and ex-minister Rotimi Amaechi, saying he would rather focus on objective political realities than sentimental judgments.
The former Ekiti Governor has remained one of the few PDP figures known for speaking candidly about national issues while maintaining personal ties across political lines.
The article was originally published on Politics Nigeria.
