Ministers in Tinubu's Cabinet Eye Governorship Seats, Hesitate to Resign Before Deadline
With just hours remaining before the resignation deadline set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a significant number of ministers and political aides aspiring for elective positions in the 2027 general elections are still undecided about stepping down. Only Nasir Bala Aminu Ja'oji, a Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, has officially resigned so far, as he prepares to contest for the Tarauni federal constituency seat.
Presidential Directive and Electoral Compliance
President Tinubu has directed all political appointees intending to run for elective offices in the 2027 elections to submit their resignation letters by March 31, 2026. This order aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The circular impacts ministers, advisers, assistants, directors-general, and chief executives of federal agencies and parastatals, requiring them to submit formal resignations through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Governorship Aspirants Among Ministers
Investigations reveal that at least 14 appointees are considering governorship bids in their respective states. Notable names include:
- Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications (Ogun State)
- Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Principal Private Secretary to the President (Lagos State)
- Senator Saidu Alkali, Minister of Transport (Gombe State)
- Senator Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture (Borno State)
- Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Bauchi State)
- Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health (Bauchi State)
- Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power (Oyo State)
Other potential candidates include Dr Mathias Byuan of the Federal Housing Authority, Pius Akutah of the Nigerian Shippers Council, and Ahmed Galadima Aminu of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.
Political Calculations and Hesitation
Despite the clear directive, many ministers are reluctant to resign immediately. Sources indicate they are awaiting "the right signals" from the presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure party tickets. One source explained, "The directive from the presidency didn't sound like an encouragement, and any brash reaction could be interpreted as rude or having no consideration for the success of the president." This hesitation reflects deep political calculations, as aspirants weigh their chances against potential backlash or lack of support.
State-by-State Dynamics and Challenges
The political landscape varies significantly across states, influencing the decisions of aspiring ministers:
- Borno State: Senator Kyari faces hurdles in securing support from President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Babagana Zulum.
- Bauchi State: Both Pate and Tuggar are keen on the governorship race but are awaiting presidential backing before making moves.
- Oyo State: Adelabu is proceeding cautiously, as party stalwarts view his ambition as a threat to their own prospects.
- Lagos State: Muri-Okunola's chances depend heavily on whether he receives the President's endorsement, especially with Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat reportedly enjoying strong support.
- Gombe State: Alkali's supporters are confident he will resign, though his media aide has urged patience until the deadline.
Other Aspirants and Uncertain Outcomes
In Benue State, Dr Mathias Byuan and Barr. Pius Akutah are carefully weighing their options. In Yobe State, Hon. Jibrin Maigari and Hon. Lawan Kolo Geidam are expected to resign to pursue governorship ambitions. With the deadline looming, uncertainty prevails. While Ja'oji has already stepped down, most ministers and aides are still consulting and seeking assurances. Their final decisions will reveal the extent to which President Tinubu's directive shapes the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, testing the balance between party loyalty and personal ambition.
