President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign from their offices on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive was announced in a press release issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and publicised by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, the order is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The circular, signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, stated that the resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential political appointees who plan to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for any elective office.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers to the president, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies.
The government said all affected officials must 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 emphasised that the measure is aimed at ensuring full compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency in the political process, and creating a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.
He also urged all concerned officials to take note of the directive and comply strictly, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria.
