Breaking: Key Minister Quits Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Cabinet In Dramatic Exit

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has stepped down from the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pursue his ambition of contesting the Bauchi State governorship election ahead of 2027.

The development was confirmed on Monday by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

Reports indicate that Tuggar submitted his resignation letter to President Tinubu shortly after midday on Monday.

Sources further revealed that the former minister is expected to run for governor of Bauchi State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His resignation follows a directive issued earlier in March by the presidency, mandating political appointees with intentions to contest elective offices to resign from their positions.

The directive was communicated through the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

According to the order, all affected officials are required to step down on or before March 31, 2026.

The directive covers a wide range of political appointees, including ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, and heads of federal agencies.

This policy aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which is designed to prevent conflicts of interest as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.