The political ambitions of several former ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet have suffered major setbacks after they resigned from office to pursue elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development followed a presidential directive requiring political appointees seeking elective offices to resign in line with the Electoral Act 2026 before participating in party primaries.
Among those affected were former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, former Minister of Transportation Saidu Alkali and former Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, all of whom resigned to pursue governorship ambitions in their respective states.
However, the gamble appears to have backfired for some of them after losing out in their party contests or facing uncertain outcomes.
Adelabu failed in his bid to secure the All Progressives Congress governorship ticket in Oyo State despite stepping down from the cabinet to focus on the race.
Adelabu had earlier defended his resignation, saying, “I write with a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation.”
He added that his decision was necessary to “focus fully on my gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State.”
Former Transportation Minister Alkali also reportedly lost momentum in the Gombe governorship contest, while Tuggar’s political fate in Bauchi remained uncertain as party consultations continued.
In contrast, former Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs Yusuf Sununu successfully secured the APC ticket for Yauri/Shanga/Ngaski Federal Constituency after withdrawing from the Kebbi South senatorial race.
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha also emerged unopposed for the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency seat in Abia State.
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