By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration seeking to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive was conveyed in a circular issued by Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), on behalf of the SGF, George Akume.
According to the statement, the decision is in line with the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective offices in the forthcoming 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before March 31, 2026,” the statement read.
The government clarified that the directive affects a wide range of presidential appointees across ministries, departments and agencies.
The categories listed include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, directors general, and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, commissions and parastatals.
“The resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential political appointees who wish to participate in the forthcoming party primaries or seek nomination for any elective office,” the circular stated.
It added that all affected officials are expected to formally submit their resignation letters through the appropriate channel within the stipulated timeline.
“Accordingly, all affected officials are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation not later than March 31, 2026.”
President Tinubu said the move is aimed at ensuring strict adherence to electoral laws and safeguarding the integrity of the political process.
“The measure is necessary to ensure full compliance with electoral laws, uphold transparency in the political process, and promote a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.”
He further urged all concerned appointees to comply without delay, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible elections in Nigeria.
