BREAKING: Tinubu directs political appointees seeking elective offices in 2027 to resign
President Bola 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 president said the directive is in accordance with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the next general elections.
The circular was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and issued through the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.
According to the directive, the resignation order affects ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, directors-general, and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, parastatals, commissions, and government-owned companies, as well as other presidential political appointees intending to seek elective offices.
“All affected officials are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation not later than March 31, 2026,” the circular stated.
President Tinubu said the decision was necessary to ensure compliance with electoral laws and maintain fairness in the political process.
The President emphasised that the directive is aimed at “ensuring full compliance with electoral laws, upholding transparency in the political process, and promoting a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.”
He also urged affected officials to strictly comply with the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections.
