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 was contained 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, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the polls.
The circular, signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Ibrahim Kana, stated that the directive applies to all categories of presidential political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or contest for elective offices.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants to the president, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies.
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According to the circular, all affected officials are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the SGF not later than the stipulated deadline.
The President said the measure was necessary to ensure compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency in the political process, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants.
He urged all concerned officials to adhere strictly to the directive, reiterating his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes.
The directive comes amid ongoing preparations for the 2027 general elections following the release of the electoral timetable by INEC.