- Several ministers resigned ahead of the deadline to contest in the 2027 elections
- The directive was issued in line with the Electoral Act 2026 to ensure fair competition
- More resignations and a cabinet reshuffle were expected as the deadline closed
With the deadline for political appointees seeking elective office expiring on Tuesday, a wave of resignations has begun to reshape the cabinet of Bola Tinubu, fuelling expectations of a major government reshuffle ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The directive, issued in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, mandates all political office holders intending to contest elections to resign before participating in party primaries. The move has triggered intense speculation across government circles, with several high-profile exits already confirmed.
Among the first to step down were the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Yusuf Sununu. Both resigned their positions to pursue elective offices in 2027.
Tuggar, who hails from Bauchi State, is seeking the governorship, a move confirmed by his media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir. During his tenure, he was credited with key diplomatic efforts, including evacuations of Nigerians abroad and strengthening partnerships across the Global South.
Similarly, Sununu resigned to contest for a senatorial seat in Kebbi State, having previously served in the House of Representatives.
The directive was formally conveyed in a circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and issued through the Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Kana. It applies broadly to ministers, advisers, and heads of government agencies, aiming to prevent the misuse of public office for electoral advantage.
Beyond the cabinet, other notable resignations have followed. Former Kano deputy governor Nasiru Gawuna stepped down as Chairman of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria’s governing board, citing compliance with the directive. He is also expected to align politically with the African Democratic Congress.
In a similar development, Abdulrazak Namdas resigned from the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, reportedly to pursue the Adamawa governorship, while presidential aide Nasir Ja’oji also exited his role.
Attention is now focused on other key ministers who have declared or are believed to be considering political ambitions. These include the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who has expressed interest in the Oyo State governorship, as well as Bosun Tijani, Saidu Alkali, Abubakar Kyari, and Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.
However, reports suggest some appointees remain undecided, amid shifting political alignments and uncertainty over party endorsements.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), party primaries are scheduled to hold between April 23 and May 30, 2026, with deadlines for candidate submissions set for July and August.
As the resignation window closes, analysts expect further exits and a subsequent reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council, signalling the beginning of an intense political season ahead of 2027.