The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has directed political appointees in his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign from their positions on or before March 30, 2026.
The directive was reportedly issued during an Iftar gathering with Muslim faithful at the New Banquet Hall of the Government House in Makurdi.
According to the governor, the decision is aimed at preventing governance from being disrupted by early political activities and ensuring that officials focused on electoral ambitions do not distract from the responsibilities of public office.
Governor Alia explained that early resignations would enable his administration to appoint replacements promptly, thereby ensuring continuity in governance and preventing delays in ongoing government projects.
The directive also signals the governor’s intention to maintain discipline within his cabinet and prevent state offices from becoming platforms for premature campaign activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political observers note that as political calculations across Nigeria begin to intensify ahead of the next general elections, the Benue governor appears determined to draw a clear line between governance and political ambition.
Analysts say the move could help ensure that government operations remain focused on development priorities rather than early electoral maneuvering.
