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Ministers’ Resignations Spark Speculation Ahead of 2027 Elections

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 31st, 2026.

A wave of political realignments has begun within the Federal Government as key cabinet members step aside to pursue ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling the early stirrings of a high-stakes electoral season.

At the centre of the latest developments are the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Yusuf Sununu, both of whom have officially resigned their positions to contest elective offices. Their exit comes in compliance with a presidential directive requiring all political appointees seeking office to vacate their roles before participating in party primaries.

As reported by The PUNCH, Tuggar confirmed his decision to join the Bauchi State governorship race, drawing attention to his political roots in Gamawa Local Government Area. His resignation was acknowledged by officials within the ministry, while his media team later clarified that he is preparing to formally enter the contest.

In his farewell communication, Tuggar expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, highlighting his involvement in advancing Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements, including citizen evacuations abroad and expanded partnerships across developing regions. Observers note that his tenure also focused on strengthening diaspora relations and multilateral cooperation.

On his part, Sununu has opted to return to legislative politics, setting his sights on a senatorial seat in Kebbi State. According to Daily Trust, the former lawmaker had previously represented a federal constituency before joining the executive arm, giving him a familiar base as he prepares for the race.

The resignations follow a directive issued through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, mandating political office holders to step down no later than March 31, 2026. The order, anchored on provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, is designed to ensure a level playing field by preventing incumbents from leveraging public office during party primaries.

Beyond the two ministers, the ripple effect is already spreading across government agencies. The Nation reports that Nasiru Gawuna, who chaired the board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, has also stepped down, citing compliance with the directive. Political insiders suggest his resignation may be linked to ongoing alignments in Kano State, where shifting alliances continue to reshape the political landscape.

Similarly, Abdulrazak Namdas, a board member of the Niger Delta Development Commission representing the North-East, has exited his role to pursue a governorship ambition in Adamawa State. His resignation letter, according to The PUNCH, explicitly referenced his intention to join the 2027 race.

Within the Presidency, Nasir Ja’oji, Senior Special Assistant on Citizenship and Leadership, has also relinquished his position. His aide confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the decision aligns with his political aspirations and appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

Meanwhile, attention is turning to other high-profile cabinet members who have openly expressed political interest but are yet to formally step down. Among them is the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who has long been linked with the Oyo State governorship race. As highlighted by The Guardian, Adelabu has been consulting widely, keeping his next move close to the chest as the resignation deadline approaches.

Speculation also surrounds the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, who is reportedly weighing a governorship bid in Ogun State, as well as the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, believed to be eyeing Gombe State. Other names in the mix include Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari and Labour Minister of State Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, both said to be considering electoral contests in their respective states.

Despite the growing list of potential contenders, insiders suggest that not all ambitions may materialise, with some appointees reportedly reconsidering their plans amid political uncertainties and lack of firm backing.

The unfolding developments point to an imminent reshuffle within the Federal Executive Council, as vacancies created by resignations will likely require replacements in the coming weeks.

With party primaries scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission to begin in late April, the race for 2027 is gradually moving from speculation to action, setting the stage for what promises to be a defining political contest in Nigeria’s democratic journey.