Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has praised former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for declining calls from some supporters urging him to contest for Nigeria’s presidency again.
According to the report, published by TVC News on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Fayose made the remarks during the commissioning of a building named in his honour by Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji. He described Jonathan’s decision as an act of political maturity and selflessness, saying the former president placed the country’s interest above personal ambition.
“We are together; he didn’t listen to the idiots who were calling on him to contest,” Fayose said.
According to the report, Fayose argued that former leaders can continue contributing to national development without returning to elective office. He said experienced statesmen can serve through advisory roles, diplomacy and peace-building efforts.
The former governor also commended Jonathan’s continued involvement in international diplomacy, election observation and peace missions since leaving office, describing him as a respected statesman whose experience continues to benefit Nigeria and the international community. He added that democracy is strengthened when former leaders support peaceful transitions and respect constitutional processes.
