Tinubu’s Ministers, Appointees who May Resign Before March 31

The directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu requiring political appointees seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026 has brought several ministers and top government officials with political ambitions under renewed scrutiny.

The instruction, conveyed in a circular signed by George Akume and issued through the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, applies to all categories of presidential appointees.

Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, directors-general, and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, commissions and parastatals, as well as other political appointees.

President Tinubu said the directive is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency and guaranteeing a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.

Tough Choices for Appointees

The directive has effectively placed affected officials in a difficult position — to either resign and pursue their political ambitions or remain in office and forgo their aspirations.

Each option carries its own risks and uncertainties, particularly in a political environment often shaped by shifting alliances and unforeseen developments.

The timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) schedules party primaries between April 22 and May 20.

Under Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, political appointees are barred from participating as delegates or aspirants in party primaries unless they resign their positions beforehand.

Ministers Weigh Exit for 2027 Contests

Findings indicate that some members of the Federal Executive Council are already considering resignation to contest various offices in the 2027 elections, particularly in states where incumbent governors will complete their second terms.

Among those linked to possible moves are Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power; Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare; Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment.

Agency heads like Dr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council; and Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar, Executive Director, Engineering & Technical Services, Nigerian Ports Authority, are not left out.

Adelabu Eyes Oyo Government House

Sources close to Adelabu confirmed that the Minister of Power is preparing to contest the Oyo State governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Adelabu, who lost to incumbent governor Seyi Makinde in both the 2019 and 2023 elections, is believed to be making another attempt at the seat.

An aide said the minister would step down at the appropriate time in line with electoral requirements, noting that only the President can formally direct his resignation.

In a video circulated in October 2025, Adelabu openly declared his intention to run, stating that 2027 represents his opportunity after previous attempts.

Bauchi: Pate, Tuggar in Early Calculations

Two ministers from Bauchi State   Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare and Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs are also believed to be positioning for the Bauchi State  governorship race in 2027.

Sources said growing pressure from political allies and community leaders has encouraged Pate to consider entering the race, although he has publicly maintained focus on his ministerial responsibilities.

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Tuggar, who has previously contested the governorship twice, is widely seen in political circles as nursing a similar ambition.

However, he has not formally declared his intention, and his camp maintains that no official decision has been taken.

Both men are expected to feature prominently in the contest for the APC ticket, especially as the current governor, Bala Mohammed, will complete his second term in 2027.

Onyejeocha May Return to National Assembly

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha is also said to be weighing a return to the legislature.

She represented Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2023, winning four consecutive terms.

Sources indicate she may seek a fresh mandate after her current stint in the executive arm.

Agency Heads Also Under Watch

Beyond the cabinet, attention has also turned to top agency heads, including Dr. Pius Akutah and Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar.

Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, has been linked to the Benue governorship race.

Similarly, Ibrahim Abba Umar Executive Director, Engineering & Technical Services at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is believed to be considering a bid in Borno State.

Although he has not formally declared interest, sources point to increasing consultations and mobilisation by supporters as signs of possible ambition.

Akutah is widely regarded as a strong contender in Benue political circles, while Umar, a former aide to Vice-President Kashim Shettima, is also gaining attention in Borno.

Early Signals Ahead of 2027

Across party lines, increased political consultations, participation in party structures, and rising public visibility are being interpreted as early indicators of interest in the 2027 elections.

While only a few have openly declared their intentions, many appointees are already being discussed as potential contenders in their respective states.

With the primaries approaching, the coming weeks are expected to clarify which of these officials will resign to pursue their ambitions and which will remain in government.