By Jane Okafor, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive, issued through a circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries.
The circular, signed by SGF George Akume and conveyed by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, stated that the directive affects all categories of presidential appointees intending to contest.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, parastatals, commissions, and government-owned companies.
According to the directive, all affected officials must channel their formal resignation letters through the SGF’s office not later than the stipulated deadline.
President Tinubu said the move is aimed at ensuring strict compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency, and guaranteeing a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the 2027 polls.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and delivering a credible electoral process.
