In a public statement on Thursday, he explained that the adjustment to his diplomatic assignment came after he formally asked to be redeployed shortly after the initial announcement.
“I expressed that I would rather serve in a country that shares some of my convictions, beliefs and values when it comes to world affairs; a country that has the biggest economy in Africa, closer ties to Nigeria, and aligns more with my political thinking and pan-African vision,” he said.
According to him, the request was submitted just two days after his original posting, and was conveyed to President Tinubu by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who he said facilitated the process.
He expressed appreciation to both the President and the Foreign Affairs Minister, adding that the decision was approved without delay. He also acknowledged Senator Sam Enang, who had initially been assigned to South Africa, for agreeing to what he described as a “straight swap” involving postings.
Fani-Kayode strongly rejected reports suggesting that Germany had turned him down, describing the claims as entirely false and misleading.
“Germany NEVER formally rejected me. That story was not only irresponsible and insulting but was also a complete fabrication based on hearsay, beer parlour talk and cheap gossip,” he stated.
He further alleged that the reports were deliberately fabricated to damage his reputation as well as embarrass the Federal Government and President Tinubu’s administration.
The former minister also claimed that preliminary inquiries indicated the controversial report was “sponsored and written with malicious intent.”
He said the matter had been escalated to security agencies, while his legal team has been instructed to begin defamation proceedings against the online platform responsible for the publication.
Challenging the outlet to substantiate its claims, he insisted that no official communication or rejection from Germany ever existed.
Despite the controversy surrounding the reports, Fani-Kayode said the clarification was necessary following concerns raised by friends and supporters.
He expressed optimism about his new diplomatic assignment in South Africa, describing the country as one he holds in high regard.
He noted that he looks forward to serving in what he called “a nation that I admire and respect given its remarkable and inspiring history,” signaling readiness to take up his ambassadorial duties.