Title: 2027 Elections: Tuggar, Gawuna Lead Wave of Resignations as Tinubu’s Deadline Triggers Mass Exit of Appointees Date Published: 31 March 2026 Description: A sweeping wave of resignations has hit Nigeria’s federal and state governments as political appointees step down ahead of the 2027 general elections, in compliance with a directive by Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Topping the list is Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, who formally resigned to pursue his governorship ambition in Bauchi State. Also exiting is Nasiru Gawuna, Chairman of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, who confirmed his resignation and defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC), signalling a possible return to Kano’s political contest.The mass resignations followed the expiration of the President’s deadline mandating all political appointees seeking elective offices to vacate their positions. Sources within the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation disclosed that over 40 officials—particularly board members—are expected to step down, with more letters still being submitted. However, indications emerged that some ministers earlier linked to governorship races may have backed out after last-minute consultations.Across the states, the development has triggered a similar exodus. In Nasarawa, Accountant-General Musa Ahmed Muhammed resigned and declared his intention to contest the governorship, citing popular demand. Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Zulum dissolved the State Executive Council to enable interested commissioners to pursue political ambitions without constraints, directing them to hand over to permanent secretaries.In Ondo State, several aides of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa reportedly resigned, including Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora, Wale Akinlosotun, alongside other advisers eyeing legislative seats. Though the state government has yet to officially confirm the exits, the Attorney-General, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), issued a legal advisory urging compliance with constitutional and electoral provisions to avoid disqualification.Similarly, in Edo State, aides of Governor Monday Okpebholo, including Deputy Chief of Staff Pius Alile and Commissioner Washington Osifo, stepped down to contest federal constituency seats. Resignations were also recorded in the Federal Capital Territory, where Mandate Secretary Bitrus Garki quit amid speculations of a House of Representatives bid.In Kaduna and Jigawa states, multiple commissioners and aides have also exited their roles, with at least 14 appointees in Jigawa resigning despite the absence of a formal directive. Observers say the trend underscores intensifying political realignments ahead of 2027, as aspirants position themselves early while navigating legal requirements under the Electoral Act. Attached Images: 7b61ec68d0f220703fd723262c1be46337027c1732d4a11ff0f6626b1cbc2c37.jpg Attached Video: None