Peter Obi Is the Only Opposition Figure With Traction – Fayose

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has said that the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, remains the only opposition figure in Nigeria with the national appeal to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Fayose made the remark on Wednesday during an interview on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television.

He said while he maintains a long-standing personal relationship with President Bola Tinubu, he had declined an appointment offer from the President, choosing instead to retire from active politics and focus on his personal life.

“Have you seen me taking an appointment from the APC? Asiwaju asked me, ‘What would we give you?’ I said, ‘Nothing, sir.’ At 65, I’d rather stay home, be responsible, and do other things I need to do. I’ve served well — two-time governor — I’ve done my part,” Fayose said.

Commenting on the 2027 presidential election, the former governor said the opposition remains too divided to unseat Tinubu, noting that only Peter Obi currently commands any significant followership.

“Tell me who would defeat APC? The only opposition I know that is in Nigeria now is Obi. I’m not saying he will win Asiwaju, but he’s the only one who still has traction,” he said.

Fayose, who served as Ekiti State governor between 2003 and 2006, and again from 2014 to 2018, described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as “going nowhere,” citing internal divisions and mass defections as reasons for its decline.

‘I’m Still Tinubu’s Friend’

Fayose emphasised that his friendship with Tinubu does not translate to political alignment.

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

He said his political decisions are guided by principle rather than personal gain, adding that he would continue to criticise the government where necessary while maintaining cordial relations with the President.