ABUJA — President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet is bracing for a major exit as at least four ministers reportedly prepare to resign their appointments to chase political ambitions in the 2027 general elections.
The looming departures are tied to fresh political calculations in states where incumbent governors will complete their two-term limits, creating power vacuums that cabinet members are eager to fill.
The Contenders
Leading the list of potential exits is Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power. Sources indicate Adelabu is expected to step down in the coming weeks to launch another bid for the Oyo State governorship. A former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Adelabu is seeking to reclaim his political footing in Oyo after losing to Governor Seyi Makinde in the 2023 polls.
In Bauchi State, a two-way battle is brewing within the cabinet. Both Dr. Muhammad Pate (Minister of Health and Social Welfare) and Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar (Minister of Foreign Affairs) are being positioned for the governorship seat. Pate, a veteran of the 2015 and 2019 races, and Tuggar, whose supporters are already mobilizing across the state, are seen as heavyweight contenders to succeed the current administration in Bauchi.
“If not Tuggar, then who?” questioned Ahmad Tilde, a member of the Tuggar Foundation, highlighting the growing clamour for the Foreign Minister’s return to state politics.
Legislative Comeback
Unlike her colleagues eyeing Government Houses, the Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, is reportedly eyeing a return to the National Assembly. After serving 16 years in the House of Representatives (2007–2023), sources say the Abia State politician is preparing to reclaim her seat representing the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi constituency.
Political Implications
While the Presidency has yet to issue an official statement on the movements, these calculated exits are expected to trigger a significant cabinet reshuffle. Analysts suggest that the departure of key ministers in charge of critical sectors like Power and Health could force President Tinubu to seek fresh hands to drive his “Renewed Hope” agenda as the 2027 election cycle begins to heat up.
