President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration seeking to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive affects 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.
The order was conveyed in a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by George Akume, with transmission by Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Kana.
According to the circular, the directive aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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,” the circular stated.
The presidency said the move is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency, and creating a level playing field for all aspirants.
Tinubu also urged strict adherence to the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes.
The development comes as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections following the release of the electoral timetable by INEC.
Under Nigerian law, political appointees are required to step down before participating in party primaries to prevent abuse of office and guarantee fairness in the electoral process.