Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration intending to contest elective positions in the 2027 elections to resign from their posts on or before March 31, 2026.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Dewan Goshit, who serves as the spokesperson for the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
Goshit explained that the directive aligns 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 polls.
The order affects all categories of presidential political appointees planning to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective positions. This includes ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal agencies, commissions, parastatals, and government-owned companies.
Officials are required to submit their resignation letters through the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation by the stipulated deadline.
“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 said.
The president also urged all concerned officials to strictly adhere to the directive, reiterating his administration’s commitment to credible elections and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
