Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign from their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
Okay News reports that the directive was announced in a statement issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed on behalf of the SGF, George Akume. The decision is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of party primaries for the 2027 elections.
According to the circular, the resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential political appointees who plan to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective offices. These include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, directors-general, and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, parastatals, commissions, and government-owned companies.
The statement explained that affected officials must submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation no later than the stipulated deadline.
President Tinubu said the directive is intended to ensure compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency in the political process, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants as the country prepares for the next general elections.
He also urged all affected appointees to strictly adhere to the directive as part of efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and credible electoral practices in Nigeria.
