6 Nigerian Appointed Officials Resign to Chase Political Power in 2027

The corridors of power in Abuja are undergoing a significant transformation following a strict mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. On March 17, the President issued a clear ultimatum through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, requiring all political appointees with 2027 electoral ambitions to vacate their posts by March 31.

This directive is more than just a preference; it is a strategic enforcement of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act. By clearing the executive branch of active campaigners before the party primaries begin this spring, the administration aims to prevent the misuse of public resources and maintain focus on governance.

While the political grapevine suggested a mass exodus, the reality at the deadline proved more measured. Only six high-profile officials have officially walked away from their federal roles to begin their campaigns.

The Ministerial Departures

Three members of the Federal Executive Council chose their political futures over their current portfolios:

• Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar: The former Minister of Foreign Affairs resigned on March 30 to pursue the governorship of Bauchi State under the APC banner.
• Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu: Previously the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Sununu is returning to his legislative roots to seek the Kebbi South Senatorial District seat.
• Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali: The Minister of Transportation submitted his resignation just hours before the March 31 deadline, eyeing the Gombe State governorship.

Key Agency and Presidential Aides

The shake-up extended beyond the cabinet to influential boards and advisory roles:

• Nasiru Gawuna: The Chairman of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria resigned on March 27 and is expected to contest the Kano State governorship under the African Democratic Congress.
• Abdulrazak Namdas: A member of the NDDC Governing Board representing the North-East, Namdas has stepped down to run for the governorship of Adamawa State.
• Nasir Ja’oji: The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership resigned to focus on political ambitions within Kano State.

The Silence of the Rumored

Despite intense speculation, several heavyweights have remained in their posts. Ministers such as Adebayo Adelabu (Power), Bosun Tijani (Communications), and Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Labor) have not resigned, effectively signaling that they will not be contesting elective positions in the immediate cycle or are prioritizing their current federal duties.

As the Independent National Electoral Commission prepares for primaries in April and May, these resignations mark the formal beginning of the 2027 race. While the initial wave of exits is smaller than anticipated, analysts suggest more resignations from lower-tier agencies may still be processed in the coming days.