Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has dismissed rumours suggesting he plans to resign from office to pursue the 2027 Lagos State governorship election.
The speculation surfaced on social media, where claims circulated that the minister might step down from his current role to focus on his political ambition ahead of the next Lagos governorship race.
However, Alausa quickly addressed the report, clarifying that he remains committed to his responsibilities at the Federal Ministry of Education.
Responding on his verified X account (formerly Twitter), the minister rejected the claim and assured Nigerians that he is still actively carrying out his duties.
“We’re still hard at work here at the Federal Ministry of Education. Don’t believe the rumours,” he wrote.
The clarification came shortly after an online post alleged that the minister could resign in line with the common political practice where public office holders leave government positions before campaigning for another elective office.
Further reinforcing the minister’s statement, the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, also debunked the claim.
He shared a video showing Alausa attending a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, noting that the minister remains fully engaged in government activities.
The speculation has sparked fresh discussions about potential candidates for the 2027 Lagos governorship election, as political calculations gradually intensify in the state.
Several influential figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress are already being mentioned as possible contenders.
Among those reportedly linked to the race are Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, former Lagos governor Akinwunmi Ambode, former Head of Service Hakeem Muri-Okunola, and businessman Seyi Tinubu.
Alausa’s name has also appeared in conversations surrounding possible aspirants, fueling the recent speculation.
The education minister was appointed on October 23, 2024, following a cabinet reshuffle by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Before his current position, he served as Minister of State for Health.
For now, there has been no official indication that Alausa intends to leave his ministerial position or formally declare interest in the Lagos governorship race.
