2027 Elections: Wike, Gbajabiamila, Others Set for Possible Exit as Tinubu’s March 31 Deadline Looms

By Kparobo Ehvwubare
A wave of potential high-profile resignations may soon hit the cabinet of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as political calculations for the 2027 general elections begin to intensify.

Insider sources within the Presidency suggest that several key appointees are weighing their options ahead of a rumored March 31 resignation deadline allegedly tied to compliance with electoral guidelines for political aspirants.

Cabinet Shake-Up: Who May Resign?
Among those reportedly considering stepping down are:

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, whose growing political alliances have sparked speculation about a major national role ahead of 2027.

Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, widely rumored to be eyeing the Lagos State governorship.

Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, who is believed to be preparing for another run at the Oyo State governorship after previous attempts.
Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, reportedly considering a governorship or senatorial bid in Katsina State.

Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, who may be planning a return to the Senate or another strategic political office.

2027 Race Begins Early
With the 2027 election cycle gradually taking shape, political observers say the pressure on serving ministers to declare their ambitions is increasing.

Under Nigeria’s electoral framework, political appointees are typically required to resign before actively contesting elections. This has fueled expectations of early exits as aspirants move to build grassroots support ahead of party primaries.

Wike’s Strategic Moves Raise Eyebrows
Particular attention is on Wike, whose recent comments describing the 2027 elections as a potential “walk in the park” have intensified speculation.

There are also unconfirmed reports that he could play a major role in President Tinubu’s re-election machinery possibly as a campaign director though this remains a subject of debate within political circles.

Lagos, Katsina, Oyo: Key Battlegrounds to Watch
In Lagos, Gbajabiamila is seen as a strong contender to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

In Oyo, Adelabu’s renewed ambition signals a potentially fierce contest.

In Katsina, Musawa’s emergence could reshape the political landscape in the North-West.

Uncertainty Over “March 31 Deadline”
Despite the widespread reports, there has been no official confirmation from the Presidency regarding a blanket directive mandating all political appointees to resign by March 31.

An aide to one of the ministers dismissed the claims, stating that their principal remains fully committed to current responsibilities.

Beyond the Cabinet: Wider Political Ripple Effects
Sources also hint at possible “silent resignations” across major federal agencies such as:
Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)
Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
as well as among academic and administrative figures seeking legislative positions.

What This Means for Nigeria
If confirmed, the anticipated resignations could trigger one of the largest political realignments in recent Nigerian history, reshaping alliances, power blocs, and electoral strategies ahead of 2027.
For now, however, much of the narrative remains speculative, with Nigerians watching closely for official announcements in the coming days.