By Peace Erewunmi

Former Lagos State Governor and former Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), has ruled out any ambition to contest for the presidency of Nigeria, dismissing speculations linking him with a possible presidential bid.

Speaking during an interview on TVC, Fashola gave a direct response when asked whether he intended to run for the nation’s highest office. He simply replied, “No.” When pressed further, he added with a smile, “President of what? I’m president at home.”

Reflecting on his more than two decades in public service, Fashola described his political journey as an extraordinary privilege. He said he hoped his experience would inspire younger Nigerians by showing that the country offers opportunities for people to rise from humble beginnings to positions of leadership.

On how history should remember him, the former minister declined to define his own legacy, saying it was not his place to influence historical judgment. “Let history write whatever history wants to write. It is not in my place,” he said.

Fashola also declined to revisit discussions about his preferred successor during the 2015 Lagos governorship election, maintaining that former public office holders should avoid interfering in the affairs of incumbent administrations. His remarks have effectively put to rest speculations about his possible participation in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race.