With just days to the March 31 resignation deadline, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over the cabinet of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as several ministers yet to declare their intentions continue to hold on to office.
The directive, which compels all political appointees seeking elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign, was widely seen as a test of discipline within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, compliance has so far been slow, raising questions about loyalty, political ambition, and internal party dynamics.
Insiders within the ruling party suggest that many of the affected ministers are deliberately delaying their resignation to retain access to state resources and political leverage needed to secure party tickets. In Nigeria’s high-stakes political environment, proximity to power often determines success in party primaries.
“There is a lot at stake,” a party source revealed. “No one wants to jump too early and lose relevance before the real contest begins.”
The development has also triggered concerns among political observers, who warn that failure to meet the deadline could undermine transparency and fairness in the electoral process. Nigeria’s electoral guidelines are clear—public office holders must step down before fully engaging in partisan contests.
Beyond politics, governance may also be taking a hit. Analysts argue that ministers juggling official duties with political ambitions risk slowing down policy implementation at a critical time for the administration.
There are also growing indications that a wave of last-minute resignations could hit the cabinet just before the deadline, a move that may pave the way for a minor reshuffle as the president seeks to stabilize his team.
As the clock ticks, all eyes remain on the presidency and the ministers concerned. Whether they comply, delay further, or seek political concessions could shape not only the internal balance of the APC but also the early contours of the 2027 electoral battle.
