Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, says he rejected an offer of appointment from President Bola Tinubu, choosing instead to focus on his private life after years in public office.
Fayose made the revelation on Wednesday during an interview on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme.
The two-term governor, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said that although he maintains a cordial relationship with President Tinubu, he has no interest in joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or serving in any capacity under the current administration.
“Have you seen me taking an appointment from the APC? Asiwaju asked me, ‘What would we give you?’ and I said, ‘Nothing, sir,’” Fayose said. “At 65, I’d rather stay at home, be more responsible, and do other things I need to do. I’ve served well—two-time governor—I’ve done well. Tomorrow will take care of itself.”
He emphasised that his friendship with President Tinubu does not extend to political alignment.
“I’ve not been with APC, but I’ve been Asiwaju’s friend and brother for a long time. That’s the truth,” he added.
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, Fayose noted that only Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 polls, Peter Obi, currently commands the kind of influence needed to mount a serious challenge to the ruling APC.
“Tell me who would defeat APC? The only opposition I know that is in Nigeria—the only person that has traction—is Obi,” he said. “Despite not being in government, he is the only one talking and everywhere. I give it to him.”
Fayose further stated that his criticisms of government are based on principle rather than personal interest, adding that his political stance remains independent.