…President Tinubu stated that the move is necessary to ensure adherence to electoral laws,
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | President Bola Tinubu has ordered all political appointees in his administration who plan to run for elective positions in the 2027 general elections to step down from their roles on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive affects ministers, agency heads, and presidential aides, and is intended to ensure compliance with Nigeria’s legal framework while safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.
According to a circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), the order is based on Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries.
The circular, signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and issued by Permanent Secretary Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, specifies that the resignation requirement covers a wide range of officials.
Those affected include Ministers, Ministers of State, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, and Personal Assistants to the President. It also applies to Directors-General, Chief Executive Officers of federal parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies, as well as any other political appointees seeking elective office.
President Tinubu stated that the move is necessary to ensure adherence to electoral laws, promote transparency, and create a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.
The directive, conveyed through Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations at the OSGF, instructs affected officials to submit their resignation letters through the SGF’s office no later than the March 31 deadline.
The administration said the timeline is designed to prevent the misuse of public office and resources during party primaries.
Tinubu also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections in Nigeria, urging all affected officials to fully comply with the directive.
