2027: Four ministers to quit Tinubu’s cabinet

Tinubu

Fresh political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections may trigger a shake-up in the cabinet of President Bola Tinubu as some ministers are reportedly weighing resignation to pursue their political ambitions in their home states.

Findings by Saturday PUNCH revealed that at least four cabinet members are already positioning themselves for state-level contests, particularly where incumbent governors will complete their constitutionally allowed two terms in 2027.

Among those being mentioned are Adebayo Adelabu (Minister of Power), Muhammad Pate (Minister of Health and Social Welfare), Yusuf Tuggar (Minister of Foreign Affairs) and the Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.

The Independent National Electoral Commission recently revised the electoral timetable, setting party primaries between April 22 and May 20.

By law, it is required that holders of appointed offices resign before the primaries.

According to 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, “A political appointee at any level shall not be a voting delegate or be voted for at the convention, congress, and primaries of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election.”

By implication, ministers, commissioners, special advisers, and other political appointees must resign their appointments before participating in party primaries either as aspirants or delegates.

Only Tinubu can order Adelabu’s resignation – Aide

Barring any last-minute change of plans, Adelabu is expected to resign his appointment in the coming weeks to vie for the Oyo governorship ticket under the All Progressives Congress.

The minister is believed to be preparing for another shot at the Oyo State governorship race after he was defeated by Governor Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2023.