By Kabir Muh’d Getso
The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Yusuf Tanko Sununu, has resigned from his position to pursue the senatorial ticket for Kebbi South ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sununu confirmed his resignation on Monday while speaking with journalists in his office. He revealed that he intends to contest for the Kebbi South Senatorial seat, which covers Yauri and Zuru, under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to sources, the former minister submitted his resignation letter to Bola Ahmed Tinubu shortly after noon on Monday.
Sununu’s decision follows a presidential directive issued earlier in March requiring political appointees seeking elective offices to step down from their positions.
The directive, communicated through the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, mandated all affected officials to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
Those affected by the directive include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, and heads of federal agencies.
The move is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, aimed at preventing conflicts of interest as Nigeria begins preparations for the 2027 general elections.