Fresh political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections could lead to changes in the cabinet of President Bola Tinubu, as several ministers are reportedly considering stepping down to pursue elective positions in their states.
Reports indicate that at least four members of the Federal Executive Council are weighing resignation as they prepare for political contests in states where sitting governors will complete their second terms in 2027.
Those mentioned include the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar; and the Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.
The development comes after the Independent National Electoral Commission released a timetable for the elections, fixing party primaries between April 22 and May 20. Electoral regulations require political appointees to resign their positions before participating in party primaries either as candidates or delegates.
Adelabu is widely believed to be preparing to run for governor of Oyo State under the ruling All Progressives Congress. The former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria previously contested the Oyo governorship race but lost to the incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde, in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
An aide to the minister, Femi Awogboro, confirmed that Adelabu intends to run for the position but said he has not yet been asked by the President to resign from his ministerial role.
According to him, Adelabu will leave office at the appropriate time in line with legal and political requirements. He added that the minister remains focused on his current responsibilities but will comply with the electoral rules when the time comes.
Meanwhile, the Oyo APC publicity secretary, Olawale Sadare, said no aspirant had officially declared interest yet, noting that the party would open the process when the appropriate time arrives. He added that individuals interested in various positions had already begun consultations with party leaders and supporters at the grassroots.
There are also indications that Pate and Tuggar could contest the governorship election in Bauchi State. Pate has previously shown interest in the state’s top job, having attempted to secure party tickets in past election cycles. Supporters in the state are reportedly urging him to join the race again, citing his professional and leadership experience.
Similarly, Tuggar is said to be considering a bid for the same position. His media aide confirmed that the minister has aspirations to contest the governorship and will follow the official electoral timetable. Both ministers were recently seen at a Bauchi APC convention, a development that further intensified speculation about their possible participation in the race.
Onyejeocha, who served in the House of Representatives for 16 years before becoming a minister, is also believed to be planning a return to the National Assembly. Sources close to the situation said the Abia politician may seek election again to represent her constituency in the lower chamber.
Meanwhile, the electoral commission has dismissed reports circulating online that it fixed March 26 as the deadline for ministers and other public officials to resign if they intend to contest elections.
The commission clarified that the information did not originate from it and urged the public to rely only on announcements published through its official channels.
In a related development, Makinde has encouraged political appointees in his administration who plan to run for office in 2027 to openly declare their intentions.
The governor said those interested in contesting should begin consultations and pursue their ambitions through the Peoples Democratic Party, assuring them of his support if they remain committed to the party and the development of the state.
