President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before 31 March 2026.
The directive was conveyed in a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), 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.
In the statement signed by the SGF, George Akume, and issued through the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, it stated: “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.”
The circular clarified that “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.”
These 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, parastatals, and government-owned companies.
It further stated that “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.”
According to the statement, the President emphasised that the directive is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws and maintaining fairness in the political process.
“President Tinubu emphasised that 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 statement read.
He also urged strict compliance, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria.
The statement was issued by Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations, for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
- AU Condemns Maiduguri Suicide Bombings - March 18, 2026
- Senegal to Challenge CAF Decision After AFCON Title Loss to Morocco - March 18, 2026
- LP NEC Dissolves Nenadi Usman Caretaker Committee - March 18, 2026