Several ministers in the administration of Bola Tinubu are reportedly preparing to resign in order to contest state-level elections ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The move follows the timetable released by Independent National Electoral Commission, which schedules party primaries between April 22 and May 20.
Ministers Considering Political Bids
At least four cabinet members are linked to potential electoral contests:
- Adebayo Adelabu – expected to contest the Oyo State governorship under the APC
- Muhammad Ali Pate – linked to the Bauchi governorship race
- Yusuf Tuggar – also eyeing the Bauchi governorship
- Nkeiruka Onyejeocha – reportedly planning a return to the National Assembly
Legal Requirement to Resign
Nigeria’s Electoral Act 2026 bars political appointees from participating in party primaries while holding office.
Section 88(1) states that any political appointee must resign before contesting or acting as a delegate in party primaries.
This means ministers, advisers and other appointed officials must leave their posts before formally entering the nomination process.
Adelabu’s Expected Oyo Governorship Run
Power Minister Adelabu is widely expected to resign to pursue the Oyo governorship seat. He previously contested against Seyi Makinde in 2019 and 2023.
An aide confirmed Adelabu intends to run but will resign only at the appropriate time, noting that the decision ultimately rests with President Tinubu.
Bauchi Governorship Battle
Health Minister Pate and Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar are both linked to the Bauchi State governorship race.
Supporters of Pate say pressure from political groups has pushed him to consider another attempt after previous bids in 2015, 2019 and 2023.
Tuggar’s media adviser confirmed he also plans to contest and will follow the electoral timetable when required.
Onyejeocha’s Possible Return to Parliament
Labour Minister Onyejeocha, who served 16 years in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2023, is reportedly planning to return to the National Assembly.
Sources say the Abia politician intends to contest again for her former constituency.
INEC Denies Viral Resignation Deadline
INEC has rejected claims circulating online that March 26 was fixed as the deadline for ministers to resign.
The commission described the viral notice as fake, urging the public to rely only on official announcements.
Political Realignment Ahead of 2027
With several governors completing their constitutionally allowed two terms in 2027, cabinet members and political figures are beginning early consultations and positioning across states.
