Alausa debunks report of cabinet exit for Lagos governorship bid

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on Wednesday denied reports that he plans to leave the Federal Executive Council to contest the Lagos State governorship election ahead of the 2027 general polls.

The minister addressed the rumour through a message shared on his social media page, where he stated that he is still carrying out his duties at the Federal Ministry of Education and has no plan to resign from his position.

The clarification came after speculation circulated that some political appointees in the current administration might step down from their positions in preparation for elective offices before the next election cycle.

According to the minister, the information being circulated about his intention to contest the Lagos governorship and leave the cabinet is not true, as he continues to focus on his responsibilities in the education sector.

The discussion around possible resignations followed the release of the 2027 election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The schedule shows that political parties are expected to organise their primary elections between April 23 and May 30.

This timeline means that political appointees who wish to contest for elective positions would need to vacate their offices before participating in the party primaries.

The election timetable is also tied to provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, which outlines requirements for political parties during their primaries.

The law states that parties must submit a detailed digital register of their members to the electoral commission at least 21 days before their primaries take place.

The membership register must contain information such as the name, gender, date of birth, address, state, local government area, ward, polling unit, national identity number and photographs of members. Both hard and soft copies of the register must be submitted to the electoral body.

The same law states that only individuals whose details appear in the submitted membership register will be allowed to vote or contest during party primaries, congresses and conventions.

These requirements have led to discussions about potential moves by political office holders who may wish to participate in the upcoming electoral process.

Despite the speculation, Alausa made it clear that he remains in office and continues to carry out his duties at the education ministry.

He said the reports about his possible resignation and governorship ambition were not correct and that his attention remains on his current responsibilities in government.