Ayodele Fayose rejects Tinubu’s offer, says he’s quitting partisan politics, declaring PDP dead and praising Peter Obi as Nigeria’s only vibrant opposition

Ayodele Fayose has turned down an offer of appointment from President Bola Tinubu, declaring that he has no interest in joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)** and has stepped away from active politics.

Also read: Fayose declares self PDP chairman in dramatic party takeover

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, the former governor of Ekiti State explained that after decades of political service, his focus at 65 is on personal responsibilities rather than seeking government positions.

“Asiwaju asked me, ‘Oshoko, what would we give you?’ I said, ‘Nothing, sir,’” Fayose revealed during the interview.

“At 65, I would rather be at home, being more responsible and doing other things that I need to do. I have served well, two-term governor, I have done well. Let tomorrow hold itself.”

While describing President Tinubu as “a friend and brother,” the outspoken politician clarified that their cordial relationship does not translate into political allegiance to the APC.

“I am not hobnobbing with the APC. I have my respect for the President, but that does not mean I am joining them,” he said.

In a bold remark, Fayose also declared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) “dead and beyond revival,” saying the opposition party has lost its relevance in Nigeria’s political scene.

“Let me tell you, the PDP is gone. I won’t be among those that will resurrect it,” he said. He further alleged that many PDP governors are already preparing to defect to the APC.

Defending President Tinubu over recent defections of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, Fayose argued that it would be “unfair to blame” the President for the party’s collapse.

In a striking endorsement, Fayose acknowledged Labour Party’s Peter Obi as the only opposition figure still commanding genuine public interest.

“The only opposition that still has traction is Obi, no other one,” he asserted. “People don’t listen to Atiku or the others anymore. Obi is everywhere, even without being in government. I give it to him.”

Twice elected as Ekiti State Governor, Fayose emphasised that his decision to retire from partisan politics was not out of disillusionment but personal conviction.