As the March 31, 2026 deadline set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approaches, several ministers and political appointees are carefully assessing their chances of electoral success before deciding whether to resign and pursue ambitions for the 2027 general elections.
The directive requires any appointee seeking elective office to step down, placing many cabinet members in a difficult position. For those eyeing governorship and other political seats, the decision involves balancing the security and influence of their current roles against the uncertainty of electoral contests shaped by intense party rivalries and local political dynamics.
At least nine ministers are reportedly considering resignation to pursue political ambitions in their respective states. Among them is Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who is expected to contest the Oyo State governorship. Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, are both linked to the Bauchi State governorship race.
In the South-East, Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, is weighing a return to the National Assembly or a governorship bid in Abia State. Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari, is believed to be preparing for a governorship run in Borno State, while Saidu Ahmed Alkali is associated with similar ambitions in Gombe State.
Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, may test his political strength in Ogun State, while Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro, is reportedly eyeing a senatorial seat in Plateau State. Ekperikpe Ekpo is also projected to join the Akwa Ibom governorship race.
These potential exits are expected to occur before party primaries scheduled between April 22 and May 20, in line with electoral laws and party regulations.
Beyond the federal cabinet, other political figures are positioning themselves for 2027 contests. In Kwara State, notable names linked to the governorship race include Issa Onilu, Abubakar Olanrewaju Suleiman and Wale Sulaiman.
However, the path to electoral success is far from straightforward. Many of the ministers face entrenched opposition structures, internal party divisions and zoning arrangements that could significantly affect their chances.
For Adelabu, the dominance of Governor Seyi Makinde and the strong structure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State present a major hurdle. Internal divisions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and lingering concerns about his performance in the power sector may also complicate his bid.
Similarly, Muhammad Ali Pate faces structural challenges in Bauchi State, including zoning dynamics that may not favour his region and his relatively limited grassroots political network. Yusuf Tuggar must also contend with party factionalism and the need to translate his national profile into local political support.
In Ogun State, Bosun Tijani’s achievements in digital innovation may boost his credentials, but analysts say converting federal accomplishments into grassroots popularity could prove difficult.
Meanwhile, Abubakar Kyari’s prospects in Borno State may be influenced by public perception of rising food prices, while other aspirants must navigate complex local political alliances and voter expectations.
Some appointees are reportedly hesitant to resign immediately, as remaining in office offers strategic advantages, including access to influence and resources. Others are waiting for clearer signals from party leaders, particularly regarding zoning arrangements and endorsements.
Political observers say this hesitation reflects uncertainty about party popularity and the implications of internal primary systems. Some aspirants are also believed to be seeking approval from political leaders before making their moves.
Despite concerns about potential disruptions, analysts insist governance will continue even if several ministers step down. Administrative processes would allow permanent secretaries to assume interim leadership roles until new appointments are made.
However, experts warn that the departure of key officials could expose institutional weaknesses and slow decision-making across ministries, especially in politically sensitive sectors.
The unfolding situation highlights a recurring pattern in governance, where public office often serves as a platform for future political ambitions. As the deadline approaches, ministers must decide whether to remain in office or take the political gamble of returning to grassroots politics in pursuit of higher office.
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