President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive was contained in a circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume. He noted 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.
According to the circular, the resignation order affects a wide range of presidential appointees, including ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, directors-general, and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, commissions, parastatals, and government-owned companies.
The directive also extends to all other political appointees serving under the president who may wish to seek nomination or participate in party primaries ahead of the elections. The government stated that all affected officials must submit their resignation letters through the Office of the SGF on or before the stipulated deadline.
President Tinubu noted that the move is aimed at ensuring strict adherence to electoral laws.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes across Nigeria.
