2027: Tinubu’s Ex-Ministers Face Tough Battles, Set To Make U-Turn
The resignation of four ministers from the Federal Executive Council (FEC), alongside several heads of government agencies under President Bola Tinubu, has significantly reshaped political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections. Their decisions to pursue governorship and National Assembly ambitions are already influencing alignments across key states, including Kano, Abia, Bauchi, Gombe, Kebbi and Adamawa.
The situation has also sparked tension between the presidency and some state governors, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC), over the emergence of preferred candidates. In some cases, the entry of former cabinet members into opposition platforms is expected to intensify competition and complicate existing political arrangements.
Among those who stepped down between March 30 and 31, in compliance with a presidential directive, are the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who is seeking a return to the House of Representatives from Abia State; Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, who is eyeing the Kano governorship; and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, who has declared his ambition to contest the Bauchi governorship. Also, Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, resigned to pursue political ambitions in Kebbi State.
Several political appointees also relinquished their positions. Abdulrazak Namdas resigned from the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to contest the Adamawa governorship, while Ahmed Aminu stepped down as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to pursue the same office. In Kano, former Deputy Governor Nasiru Gawuna resigned as Chairman of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) to run for governor under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Similarly, Rauf Okaniyan left his role as Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (Technical) to contest the Oyo governorship on the APC platform.
These developments are expected to pressure incumbent APC governors to reconsider their preferred successors or negotiate compromises to maintain party unity ahead of the polls.
In Bauchi State, the governorship race is becoming increasingly competitive following Tuggar’s entry. His candidacy is likely to reshape the field, potentially forcing some aspirants to withdraw or defect to other parties. The APC already has several prominent figures vying for the ticket, including former NNPC official Bala Wunti and Senator Umar Shehu Buba, who is said to enjoy strong grassroots support.
Meanwhile, the political landscape is further complicated by the uncertain position of Governor Bala Mohammed, who is reportedly considering leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His indecision over which platform to adopt for his next political move has limited his ability to influence the succession race. Although he has held talks with both APC and ADC leaders, his planned move to the ADC was reportedly delayed by internal disputes and regulatory issues involving the party.
Observers suggest Tuggar may face challenges securing the APC ticket, as he is perceived by some as lacking deep grassroots support in the state. Additionally, Bauchi South’s historical dominance in producing governors may work against him, given his origin from Bauchi North.
In Gombe State, Alkali’s entry into the governorship race could disrupt Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s succession plans. While the governor has yet to publicly endorse a candidate, several loyalists have been tipped as possible successors. Alkali’s perceived ties to Abuja may place the governor in a difficult position as he balances local preferences with federal influence.
In Kano, political tensions are rising following Gawuna’s defection to the ADC to contest the governorship. His move presents a challenge to Governor Abba Yusuf, who recently defected from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC, straining relations with his former ally, Rabiu Kwankwaso. Although Yusuf now holds the advantages of incumbency, Kwankwaso’s continued influence over Kano politics could shape voter behaviour in 2027.
However, uncertainties surrounding the ADC, including ongoing legal disputes and leadership recognition issues with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), may affect Gawuna’s chances if unresolved.
In Abia State, Onyejeocha’s return to the race for the Isuikwuato–Umunneochi federal constituency sets the stage for a high-stakes contest. After losing the seat in 2023 to Labour Party’s Amobi Ogah, she is attempting a comeback, leveraging her extensive political experience and grassroots network.
Her supporters highlight her track record, including empowerment initiatives and constituency projects, as well as her influence within the APC. However, she faces stiff opposition from Ogah, who has strengthened his position through visible projects and security interventions, earning significant local support.
The contest is further complicated by shifting political dynamics in Abia, where the Labour Party continues to gain strength under Governor Alex Otti. Additionally, internal party dynamics and the possible involvement of other political actors could intensify the race.
In Adamawa State, Namdas and Aminu face uncertainty over their prospects, as both are seeking the backing of Governor Umaru Fintiri, who recently joined the APC and now leads the party in the state. Questions remain about whether the governor will be allowed to determine his successor, a factor that could significantly influence the outcome of the race.
Overall, the wave of resignations has introduced new variables into the political landscape, setting the stage for intense contests and strategic realignments as the 2027 elections approach.
