Amanze Chinonye
A sweeping directive by President Tinubu requiring political appointees with electoral ambitions to vacate office by March 31, 2026, is set to trigger a significant shake-up within the federal cabinet and across key government agencies, Prime Business Africa reports.
The order, issued through a circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by George Akume, compels ministers, presidential aides, and heads of parastatals seeking to contest in the 2027 general elections to formally resign ahead of party primaries.
According to the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), party primaries are scheduled to hold between April 23 and May 30, with submission of candidates’ names beginning in July.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelCabinet Members Position for Governorship Races
Findings indicate that several senior cabinet members are already making moves toward governorship contests across different states.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is widely seen as a frontrunner in the Oyo State race. Having contested twice unsuccessfully, Adelabu has renewed his political structures and signalled a fresh bid to succeed the incumbent administration.
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In Bauchi State, both the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, are linked to the governorship contest, with visible campaign activities and consultations already underway.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, is also being projected as a strong contender in Borno State, where succession calculations have begun ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Similarly, the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Ahmed Alkali, is believed to be quietly building support for a possible Gombe governorship bid, while the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, is reported to be engaging stakeholders in Ogun State amid speculation of his interest in the top job.
Beyond the cabinet, the directive has widened the scope of potential exits to include senior presidential aides and heads of government institutions.
The Principal Private Secretary to the President, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, has emerged as a prominent name in discussions around the Lagos State governorship, with support groups already mobilising despite no formal declaration.
In Plateau State, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, is reportedly weighing a senatorial bid, while multiple appointees across Kano, Benue, Katsina, Adamawa and Kwara states are said to be preparing to join legislative and governorship contests.
Some agency heads have already taken concrete steps underscoring the growing impact of the presidential directive beyond the federal cabinet.
Policy Intent
President Tinubu has framed the resignation requirement as a measure to strengthen electoral integrity, curb the misuse of incumbency, and ensure fairness among aspirants.
However, analysts remain divided over its broader implications. While some interpret the directive as a firm commitment to transparency and adherence to electoral law, others argue it may also serve as a mechanism for managing internal political ambitions within the ruling establishment.
With the March 31 deadline drawing near, attention is now focused on compliance levels and the potential governance gaps that may emerge as key officials exit their roles to pursue political ambitions.
The unfolding resignations are expected to reshape both the composition of government and the early dynamics of the 2027 general elections.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
