2027 elections: Five Tinubu appointees resign to pursue political ambitions (Full list)

No fewer than five top officials in the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu have vacated their positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The resignations follow a directive issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, instructing all political appointees with electoral ambitions to leave office on or before March 31, 2026.

The order applies to ministers, advisers, assistants, and heads of federal agencies. It is in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), aimed at ensuring a fair and transparent process ahead of party primaries.

Following the directive, three ministers and two senior government appointees have formally resigned, most of them citing plans to contest elections in their respective states.

List of officials who resigned

Yusuf Sununu

The former Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs stepped down to pursue a senatorial bid in Kebbi State. He previously served as a member of the House of Representatives representing Ngaski/Shanga/Yauri Federal Constituency.

Yusuf Tuggar

The former Minister of Foreign Affairs resigned to focus on his governorship ambition in Bauchi State under the All Progressives Congress (APC). He earlier served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany and was a member of the House of Representatives.

Saidu Ahmed Alkali

Alkali, who was Minister of Transportation, also exited the cabinet in compliance with the directive. He is preparing to join the Gombe State governorship race.

Nasir Yusuf Gawuna

The former Kano State deputy governor resigned as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. He was the APC governorship candidate in Kano during the 2023 elections.

Abdulrazak Namdas

A former board member of the Niger Delta Development Commission representing the North-East, Namdas stepped down to pursue elective office, with indications pointing to a possible governorship bid in Adamawa State.

The mass exit highlights early political realignments as aspirants position themselves for the 2027 polls.