Fresh political maneuvers are brewing in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet as the 2027 general elections approach, with at least four ministers reportedly planning to resign their positions to pursue governorship or legislative ambitions in their home states.
According to findings by Saturday PUNCH, the ministers eyeing state-level contests include Adebayo Adelabu (Minister of Power), Muhammad Pate (Minister of Health and Social Welfare), Yusuf Tuggar (Minister of Foreign Affairs), and Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Minister of State for Labour).
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the electoral timetable, scheduling party primaries from April 22 to May 20, 2026. Under Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended), political appointees such as ministers must resign before participating in party primaries as aspirants or delegates.
Adebayo Adelabu is expected to step down soon to contest the Oyo State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He previously ran for the position in 2019 (under Accord Party) and 2023 but lost to incumbent Governor Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adelabu has publicly declared his intention, stating in a viral video last year that “it’s our turn” and “it’s Adelabu’s turn.”
His aide, Femi Awogboro, confirmed the ambition to PUNCH, noting that the minister would resign at the appropriate time, though President Tinubu has not yet directed him to do so.
Interest in succeeding Adelabu as Minister of Power is already growing.
In Bauchi State, both Muhammad Pate and Yusuf Tuggar are positioning for the governorship race, where the incumbent is completing a second term in 2027.
Pate, a professor and former governorship contender (under PDP in 2015, PRP in 2019, and APC in 2023), has faced renewed calls from supporters to run again.
A coordinator from his media center told PUNCH that a Bauchi delegation visited him in Abuja to urge his participation, and he has agreed.
Tuggar, who has contested before and maintained political activities in the state, had his intention confirmed by his special adviser on media, Alkasim Abdulkadir.
A supporter from the Tuggar Foundation expressed strong confidence in his leadership capacity. Both are expected to comply with INEC’s timetable for resignation.
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who served 16 years (2007–2023) as a House of Representatives member for Isuikwuato/Umunneochi in Abia State, is planning a return to the National Assembly.
A credible source told PUNCH that she aims to reclaim her seat. Efforts to reach her for confirmation were unsuccessful.
