By Sandra Ugwu

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has revealed that he declined an appointment offer from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying he has no interest in returning to public office after decades in politics.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, the two-term governor said although he maintains a cordial personal relationship with President Tinubu, he has no intention of joining or working under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Have you seen me take any appointment from the APC? Asiwaju asked me, ‘What would we give you?’ and I said, ‘Nothing, sir.’ 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 said.

He stressed that his friendship with the President does not translate into political alignment, describing their relationship as one of mutual respect rather than partisanship.

“I’ve not been with the APC, but I’ve been Asiwaju’s friend and brother for a long time. That’s the truth,” he noted.

Turning to the 2027 general elections, Fayose identified Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as the only opposition figure with the national reach to challenge the APC, even though he stopped short of predicting an APC defeat.

“Tell me who would defeat APC? The only opposition that I know in Nigeria - I’m not saying he will win Asiwaju, but the only person that has traction is Obi. Despite not being in government, he’s the only one talking and everywhere. I give it to him,” he said.

Fayose added that his interventions on national issues are guided by conviction, not political ambition or reward, emphasizing that he is content with his role as an elder statesman in Nigeria’s political landscape.