Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive affects a wide range of officials, including 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, as well as other political appointees.
The instruction was conveyed through a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.
The circular was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Ibrahim Kana.
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It emphasized that the resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential appointees seeking to participate in party primaries or contest elective offices.
According to the directive, affected officials must submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation no later than March 31, 2026.
President Tinubu explained that the measure is necessary to ensure compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants.
He urged all concerned officials to adhere strictly to the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria.
The development comes as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum following the release of the electoral timetable by INEC.
Under Nigerian electoral laws, political appointees are required to step down before participating in party primaries to prevent abuse of office and uphold fairness in the electoral process.
