As political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, President Bola Tinubu has ordered all political appointees in his administration aspiring to run for elective positions in the polls to vacate their offices on or before March 31, 2026.
A circular endorsed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and released by Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Kana, says the directive is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of party primaries for the 2027 polls.
According to the release, the directive covers a wide range of officials, including ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal aides, as well as directors-general and chief executives of federal parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned enterprises as well as all Other Political Appointees of the President.
President Tinubu also told those affected to comply strictly with the directive, reiterating his administration’s resolve to strengthen democratic institutions and support credible electoral practices in Nigeria.
The circular further directs the affected officials to submit their resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation no later than March 31, 2026.
Recall, the Country’s electoral laws make it mandatory for political appointees aspiring for elective positions to resign before taking part in party primaries.
