By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before Tuesday, 31 March, 2026, in compliance with the Electoral Act and the timetable released for the polls.
The directive, contained in a press release dated Tuesday, 17 March, 2026 from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, stated that the decision was taken in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the schedule issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of party primaries for the 2027 general elections.
According to the circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, the resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential political appointees who intend to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for any elective position.
The statement read, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, 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.”
Those affected, the statement noted, include Ministers, Ministers of State, Special Advisers to the President, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Personal Assistants, Directors-General, and Chief Executive Officers of Federal Government parastatals, agencies, commissions and government-owned companies, as well as other political appointees serving under the President.
It further stated, “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 explained that the directive became necessary to ensure compliance with electoral regulations and to guarantee fairness in the political process.
He said, “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.”
The President therefore urged all concerned officials to strictly comply with the directive, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to credible democratic processes.
He added, “All concerned officials are to take note of this directive and ensure strict compliance, as the administration remains committed to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria.”
