As the federal government’s deadline for political appointees to resign takes effect, key figures across federal and state levels have begun stepping down, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs Yusuf Tanko Sununu, and Nasarawa State Accountant-General Musa Ahmed Muhammad confirming their exits to pursue elective positions in 2027.
The development comes in compliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive requiring all political appointees seeking elective office to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
Tuggar’s resignation was confirmed on Monday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, who stated that the resignation of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs was confirmed.
The minister, who hails from Udubo in Bauchi State, is seeking to contest the governorship election in the state. His ambition had earlier been disclosed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, who confirmed that the minister is interested and aspires to run for the governorship seat of Bauchi State, and that he would comply with the electoral timetable.
Also stepping down is Tanko Sununu, who resigned from his role as Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs to pursue a senatorial bid in Kebbi State. Confirming his exit, he said he acted in line with existing regulations guiding political office holders seeking elective positions. When contacted by newsmen, Sununusimply affirmed his resignation.
At the state level, Nasarawa’s Accountant-General, Dr. Musa Ahmed Muhammad, announced his resignation during a rally held in his honour in Lafia, declaring his intention to contest the governorship election.
“For your sake, and for the people of Nasarawa State who have seen my resourcefulness, capacity, and leadership, I have decided to resign from my position as Accountant General,” he said.
He added, “I have accepted your call and I am offering myself to contest. By God’s grace and with your support, I will give my best in the 2027 elections.”
Muhammad also expressed appreciation to Governor Abdullahi Sule, describing him as “the best governor Nasarawa State has ever had,” while acknowledging the support he received during his time in office.
As other appointees consider their political chances ahead of party primaries, the early resignations mark the start of what is anticipated to be a wider wave of departures across the cabinet.
Now that the deadline is today, focus has shifted to other ministers and senior aides who might either resign before the end of the day or give up their hopes of staying in office.
