President Bola Tinubu has ordered all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before 31 March 2026.
The directive was announced on Tuesday in a statement issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the next polls.
According to the statement, signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the decision is intended to ensure compliance with electoral laws and to protect the integrity of the political process.
The OSGF said the order is 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.
The circular conveying the President’s instruction was issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, and applies to a wide range of presidential appointees planning to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective office.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants and personal assistants to the President.
READ ALSO: Charles Soludo Sworn in for Second Term as Anambra Governor
It also covers directors-general and chief executive officers of federal parastatals, agencies, commissions and government-owned companies, as well as other political appointees serving under the President.
All affected officials are required to submit their formal letters of resignation through the Office of the SGF no later than 31 March 2026.
Tinubu was quoted as saying the measure is necessary to promote transparency and fairness, and to prevent conflicts of interest among public office holders seeking elective positions.
He added that the directive would help create a level playing field for all aspirants and strengthen public confidence in party primaries and the wider electoral system.
The President urged strict compliance with the order, stressing his administration’s commitment to credible elections and the strengthening of democratic institutions in Nigeria.
The move comes as political parties prepare to roll out nomination processes in line with INEC’s schedule ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tags: #Tinubu #NigeriaPolitics #2027Elections #INEC #ElectoralAct