There are strong indications that several ministers and other top political appointees in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration may soon step down, following a directive mandating those seeking elective offices in 2027 to resign.
The order requires all affected officials to vacate their positions on or before March 31, 2026, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act and the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Party primaries are scheduled to take place between April 23 and May 30, 2026. Submission of candidates’ names to INEC is expected by July 11 for presidential and National Assembly elections, and August 8 for governorship and state assembly contests.
Findings reveal that beyond ministers, several other categories of presidential appointees—including ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal aides, and heads of federal agencies—are also preparing to exit their roles to pursue political ambitions.
The directive was conveyed through a circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), in accordance with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026.
The circular, signed by SGF George Akume and issued by Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Kana, applies to all political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or contest elective offices.
It instructs affected officials to submit resignation letters through the SGF’s office not later than March 31, 2026.
President Tinubu said the decision was aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency, and guaranteeing fairness among aspirants.
He urged strict adherence to the directive, reiterating his administration’s commitment to credible elections and stronger democratic institutions.
Key Appointees Likely to Exit
Bayo Adelabu (Oyo State)
The Minister of Power is widely considered a leading aspirant in the race to succeed Governor Seyi Makinde in Oyo State. Having contested the governorship twice—in 2019 and 2023—Adelabu has intensified preparations for another bid.
“I have been on this journey for a while now. I believe it’s not the day you start politics that you begin to reap the benefits. I have now paid my dues. I contested against Seyi (Makinde) in 2019. In 2023, I also contested against Seyi, then as the sitting governor. But this 2027, God has shown that it’s my turn. It’s Adelabu time. Anything that belongs to Adelabu belongs to us all,” he said.
Bosun Tijani (Ogun State)
The Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy Minister is also believed to be consulting widely ahead of a possible governorship run in Ogun State, although he has yet to formally declare.
Hakeem Muri-Okunola (Lagos State)
The Principal Private Secretary to the President is emerging as a strong contender in Lagos politics, with growing support for his possible governorship bid.
Saidu Alkali (Gombe State)
The Minister of Transportation is reportedly positioning himself for the Gombe governorship ticket. Sources indicate he may soon resign, having begun preparations following the presidential directive.
Muhammad Ali Pate & Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (Bauchi State)
Both ministers are linked to the Bauchi governorship race.
Dr Jaafar Ibrahim Dass confirmed Pate’s interest, stating:
“People started saying that he may not run because they say he is doing a good job for President Tinubu and he may not be allowed to exit. But that is a good campaign for him because it shows that he is working. I can, however, assure you that he wants to run having contested in 2015; 2019 and 2023. Another thing I can tell you is that he will first seek clearance and blessing from the president as a mark of respect to the one who gave him the appointment before leaving he cabinet.”
Bernard Doro (Plateau State)
The Humanitarian Affairs Minister is reportedly eyeing a senatorial seat, despite pressure for zoning considerations.
Abubakar Kyari (Borno State)
The Agriculture Minister is frequently mentioned as a potential successor to Governor Babagana Zulum, with political insiders expecting him to join the race soon.
Other Aspirants Across the Country
Several other federal appointees are also preparing to contest various positions, including:
Dr Mathias Byuan and Pius Akutah (Benue governorship)
Hafiz Ibrahim Kawu and Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji (Kano House of Representatives)
Jabiru Tsauri (Katsina Senate)
Ahmed Galadima Aminu (Adamawa governorship)
Issa Onilu and others (Kwara governorship)
Early Resignation Recorded
In Kebbi State, Dr Usman Sani Tunga has already stepped down as Rector of Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic to contest for a House of Representatives seat.
Reactions to Directive
Governor Bassey Otu defended a similar move in his state, stating:
“This decision is not punitive; it is principled. It aligns with global best practices and ensures a level playing field for all aspirants while safeguarding the integrity of government institutions.”
“Let us uphold accountability, discipline and selfless service. The progress of our dear state must always come before personal ambition,” he added.
Analysts Divided
Political analysts have expressed mixed views on the directive.
Dr Sani Abubakar described it as a step toward accountability:
“What this means is that the president is trying to level the playing field. Incumbency advantage is a major issue in Nigerian politics, and this directive reduces the misuse of state resources by appointees who may want to contest elections.”
Hajiya Zainab Musa, however, said:
“The law is already clear, so this directive is more of a political statement. It could be aimed at consolidating internal party discipline or managing ambitions within the ruling party.”
She cautioned:
“If it is applied across board, it strengthens democracy. But if it targets certain individuals or factions, then it becomes a political tool rather than a governance reform.”
Both analysts agreed that compliance will ultimately determine the directive’s impact on Nigeria’s electoral process.
(DAILY TRUST)
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