2027 Race: Ministers Jostle, Panic As Tinubu Shuns Endorsement Lobby

Fresh tension is building within the Federal Executive Council (FEC) following a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mandating all political appointees seeking elective offices to resign on or before March 31.

The order, communicated through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation led by George Akume, has triggered intense political calculations among ministers and senior aides.

Sources revealed to Daily Sun that the directive has unsettled many appointees who had hoped to secure presidential backing before stepping down to pursue their ambitions.

Findings indicate that the President has deliberately refused to grant private audiences to appointees seeking endorsement for governorship and legislative positions.

A senior APC chieftain stated: “The President is a veteran of the trenches.

“He (Tinubu) told a group recently that he is not a ‘kingmaker of appointees’ but a President for all. His message is simple: If you think you are popular enough to lead your state, go home, resign and prove it to the delegates.”

This stance has effectively forced aspirants to rely on grassroots support rather than perceived influence from Abuja.

The directive aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act, particularly Section 84(12), which bars political appointees from participating in party primaries unless they resign.

With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) expected to hold party primaries by the end of April, any appointee still in office by April 1 risks disqualification.

Several top government officials are reportedly preparing to resign and join the 2027 political race, including:

Adebayo Adelabu — Oyo governorship;

Bosun Tijani — Ogun governorship (yet to confirm);

Saidu Alkali — Gombe governorship;

Muhammad Ali Pate — Bauchi governorship;

Yusuf Maitama Tuggar — Bauchi governorship;

Abubakar Kyari — Borno governorship;

Bernard Doro — Plateau North senatorial seat.

The refusal of presidential endorsement has created a dilemma for many appointees, especially those facing strong governors or entrenched political structures in their states.

Sources say several “super ministers” have made frantic attempts to secure backing but have been rebuffed.

As the March 31 deadline approaches, the atmosphere within government circles has shifted from confidence to uncertainty.

Insiders describe the situation as a “quiet but tense waiting game,” with many appointees weighing the risks of resigning without guaranteed political support.