Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has revealed that he declined an appointment offer from President Bola Tinubu, choosing instead to focus on his personal life after years in public service.
Fayose made the disclosure on Wednesday during the Politics Today programme on Channels Television.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member said that despite his longstanding personal friendship with President Tinubu, he had no intention of joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) government or accepting any political role under it.
“When Asiwaju asked me, ‘What would we give you?’ I replied, ‘Nothing, sir.’ At 65, I’d rather be at home, focusing on other responsibilities,” Fayose said. “I’ve served well as a two-time governor. Tomorrow will take care of itself.”
He emphasized that his friendship with Tinubu does not equate to political alignment. “I’ve never been with the APC, but I’ve been Asiwaju’s friend and brother for a long time. That is the truth,” he added.
Regarding the 2027 general elections, Fayose identified Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as the only opposition figure with the national appeal to challenge the ruling APC.
“Who else can defeat APC? The only opposition I see with traction is Obi. Despite not being in government, he’s the one talking everywhere. I give it to him,” Fayose stated.
While he continues to criticize where necessary, Fayose said his political decisions are driven by principle, not personal gain. He declined to compare Obi’s opposition credentials with those of Goodluck Jonathan or Rotimi Amaechi.
