Ministers Eyeing Political Contests to Resign from Tinubu’s Cabinet
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
New political calculations for the 2027 general elections may soon lead to a significant shake-up in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
At least four ministers are reportedly preparing to resign to pursue governorship or legislative seats in their respective home states.
The identified officials include Adebayo Adelabu (Minister of Power), Muhammad Pate (Minister of Health), Yusuf Tuggar (Minister of Foreign Affairs), and Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Minister of State for Labour). Most of these ministers are targeting states where current governors will finish their second terms in 2027.
Adebayo Adelabu’s team has confirmed his intention to run for the governorship of Oyo State once again. Having contested previously in 2019 and 2023, his aide stated that Adelabu remains focused on his current duties but will resign when the President directs or as legal requirements dictate.
In Bauchi State, both Muhammad Pate and Yusuf Tuggar are being positioned by supporters for the governorship ticket. Pate, who has a history of seeking the seat, has reportedly accepted calls from a delegation to run, while Tuggar’s media aide confirmed the minister’s interest in the position.
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of State for Labour, is reportedly planning a return to the National Assembly. Having served 16 years in the House of Representatives previously, sources indicate she aims to represent her constituency in Abia State once more in the 2027 elections.
The legal framework under Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 mandates that political appointees must resign before participating in party primaries. With INEC setting these primaries for April and May, ministers must step down in the coming months to remain eligible.
Despite the circulating rumours, INEC has officially disowned a fake graphic claiming that a specific resignation deadline of March 26 had been set. The commission urged the public to rely only on verified channels for official updates regarding the 2027 electoral timetable.
Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has encouraged his own political appointees to declare their 2027 ambitions openly. He assured them that they are free to pursue elective offices on the PDP platform as long as they remain loyal to the state’s development.
