The Nigerian government says five cabinet ministers have left their posts so that they can run for elected positions next year.
Government officials say the ministers of the interior, culture and tourism, commerce, sports and intergovernmental affairs have left their offices. President Olusegun Obasanjo has submitted a list to parliament to replace the ministers.
The resignations are the latest government shifts in the run-up to next year's general elections.
Two days ago, Mr. Obasanjo replaced three top military chiefs and his national security adviser. The shuffle comes weeks after the defeat in parliament of a measure that would have allowed Mr. Obasanjo to run for a third term.
Some information for this report was provided by AP and Reuters.
