Why I Rejected Tinubu’s Appointment Offer – Fayose

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has said he turned down an offer of appointment from President Bola Tinubu, choosing instead to focus on his private life after decades in politics.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Fayose revealed that although he maintains a cordial personal relationship with President Tinubu, he has no interest in taking up any political role 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,’” Fayose said. “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.”

He emphasized that his friendship with Tinubu does not translate into political alignment, saying, “I’ve not been with APC, but I’ve been Asiwaju’s friend and brother for a long time. That is the truth.”

When asked about the 2027 general elections, Fayose described Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as the only opposition figure with significant national appeal capable of challenging the ruling APC.

“Tell me who would defeat APC? The only opposition that I know that is in Nigeria — I’m 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 said.

Fayose, known for his outspoken political stance, added that his criticism of government policies remains guided by principle rather than personal interest. He, however, declined to compare Obi’s opposition strength with that of former President Goodluck Jonathan or former Governor Rotimi Amaechi.