Some former ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s administration who resigned from the Federal Executive Council to pursue elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections are experiencing mixed results, with only two securing party tickets so far.
Five ex-cabinet members stepped down after the Presidency directed political appointees to resign before participating in party primaries, in line with the Electoral Act 2026. Among them were former Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, seeking the APC governorship ticket in Bauchi State; former Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs Yusuf Sununu, pursuing the Kebbi senatorial ticket; former Minister of Transportation Saidu Alkali, aiming for the Gombe governorship ticket; former Minister of State for Labour and Employment Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, contesting the House of Representatives seat for Isuikwuato/Umunneochi in Abia; and former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, vying for the Oyo governorship ticket.
So far, only Onyejeocha and Sununu have secured party nominations. Onyejeocha clinched the APC ticket unopposed, while Sununu obtained the party ticket for Yauri/Shanga/Ngaski after withdrawing from the Kebbi South senatorial race.
Meanwhile, Adelabu and Alkali lost in their contests. Adelabu, who resigned after the presidential deadline, was defeated in the Oyo governorship primaries by Senator Sarafadeen Alli, who garnered 578,143 votes against Adelabu’s 19,193. Adelabu has alleged manipulation in the process and plans to challenge the outcome through formal petitions.
Alkali, who boycotted the Gombe governorship primaries citing irregularities, lost to Jamilu Gwamna, supported by the incumbent governor. Despite the loss, Alkali remains in the APC and has clarified that he only boycotted the primary, not withdrawn from the race.
The fate of Yusuf Tuggar remains uncertain amid reports that former Bauchi governor Muhammad Abubakar may be imposed as the APC candidate. Supporters of Tuggar have threatened to leave the party if such an imposition occurs, arguing that it undermines internal democracy. Consultations are ongoing among his backers regarding possible next steps, including a party switch.
