LAGOS, Nigeria — Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has revealed that he turned down an appointment offer from President Bola Tinubu, saying he prefers to focus on his personal life after decades in politics.
Fayose, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the disclosure on Thursday, October 16, 2025, during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
He explained that while he maintains a cordial relationship with Tinubu, their association should not be interpreted as political alignment.
“Have you seen me taking appointment from the APC?” Fayose asked during the interview.
“Asiwaju asked me, ‘What would we give you?’ I said, ‘Nothing, sir.’”
The former governor, who has long been known for his outspoken political style, said he is content with his achievements and prefers to step away from public 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,” he said.
Fayose, who governed Ekiti State from 2003 to 2006 and again from 2014 to 2018, has remained one of the PDP’s most recognisable figures in the southwest.
Despite occasional praise for Tinubu, he has maintained that his remarks stem from respect and personal friendship, not political defection.
Political observers say Fayose’s latest remarks underscore the shifting dynamics in Nigeria’s political class, where former rivals often navigate alliances across party lines.
In recent months, several key figures from the PDP — including governors Peter Mbah of Enugu and Douye Diri of Bayelsa — have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing alignment with Tinubu’s reform agenda.
Fayose, however, appeared to rule out such a move, stressing his desire for rest and reflection rather than renewed political engagement.
“I’ve done my part in public life,” he said.
“The time has come to live quietly and let others serve.”
