With just 24 hours left before the federal government’s resignation deadline for political appointees seeking elective offices, no minister has officially stepped down, according to findings.
However, a presidential aide, Nasir Bala Aminu, popularly known as Ja’oji, has already resigned over the weekend in preparation for the 2027 general elections. Reports indicate that several other top appointees may soon follow.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier directed all political appointees intending to contest in the upcoming elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
Failure to comply may force them to abandon their political ambitions in order to retain their current roles.
The directive, issued through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, personal assistants, directors-general, and heads of federal agencies and parastatals.
Investigations reveal that at least 14 appointees, including ministers and senior aides, are considering running for governorship positions in their respective states. Among them are Bosun Tijani (Ogun), Hakeem Muri-Okunola (Lagos), Saidu Alkali (Gombe), Abubakar Kyari (Borno), Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (Bauchi), Muhammad Ali Pate (Bauchi), and Adebayo Adelabu (Oyo).
Others reportedly nursing political ambitions include Mathias Byuan, Pius Akutah, Ahmed Galadima Aminu, and Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji.
Reason for Delay
Sources suggest that many of the appointees are reluctant to resign due to uncertainty about securing their party’s ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Most are said to be awaiting clear signals or assurances from the presidency regarding support for their ambitions.
Some fear that resigning without endorsement could jeopardize both their current positions and political aspirations. Others are cautious about how their resignation might be perceived by the President, especially if interpreted as a lack of commitment or appreciation.
Insiders revealed that many are engaging in consultations and waiting for possible guidance from the upcoming APC National Convention to better understand the President’s stance.
Historical precedents also contribute to their hesitation. During past administrations, some appointees who resigned to contest elections failed to secure party tickets, while only a few succeeded.
State-by-State Dynamics
In Borno State, Abubakar Kyari is said to be weighing key political considerations, including securing the backing of the President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Babagana Zulum.
Bauchi presents a unique situation, with both Yusuf Maitama Tuggar and Muhammad Ali Pate reportedly interested in the governorship race. Despite strong competition within the state, both are believed to be confident of victory if they secure the APC ticket.
In Oyo State, Adebayo Adelabu is also said to be proceeding cautiously, awaiting presidential endorsement before making a final move.
Meanwhile, in Lagos, Hakeem Muri-Okunola is unlikely to resign unless he receives clear backing from the presidency, especially given reported support for the current deputy governor.
Bosun Tijani of Ogun State is also reportedly interested in contesting but may be hesitant to challenge existing political structures without strong backing.
In Gombe State, supporters of Saidu Alkali remain optimistic that he will resign and contest, though no official confirmation has been made.
Other Aspirants
In Benue State, Mathias Byuan and Pius Akutah are also eyeing the governorship but have yet to resign.
Similarly, in Yobe State, Jibrin Maigari and Lawan Kolo Geidam are expected to step down to pursue their ambitions, though they are yet to do so.
Overall, while the deadline draws closer, uncertainty, political calculations, and the quest for endorsement continue to shape the decisions of many appointees.