Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who are seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31. This directive is part of efforts to ensure compliance with electoral laws and promote transparency in the electoral process.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the instruction was communicated through a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and signed by the Secretary, Sen. George Akume. The directive aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the polls.
The circular, as issued by the Permanent Secretary General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, clarifies that the directive applies to all categories of presidential political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective offices. The list of those affected includes ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, and directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies.
Furthermore, the circular mandates that all affected officials must submit their resignation letters through the office of the SGF by the stated deadline. The president emphasized the necessity of this measure to ensure compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants.
President Tinubu urged all relevant officials to comply strictly with the directive, underscoring his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes in the country.