Tinubu Orders Political Appointees to Resign Before March 31 Ahead of 2027 Elections

President Tinubu has ordered his political appointees to resign before March 31 ahead of 2027 elections.

 

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration seeking elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign from office on or before March 31, 2026.

 

The directive affects a broad category 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 agencies, parastatals, and government-owned enterprises.

 

The order was conveyed through a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by George Akume, with confirmation by Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.

 

 

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According to the circular, the directive is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of party primaries for the 2027 polls.

 

It stated that all affected appointees intending to contest or participate in party primaries must submit their resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation no later than the stipulated deadline.

 

The presidency said the move is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency, and creating a level playing field for all aspirants.

 

Tinubu also urged strict adherence to the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes.

 

The development comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections following the release of the election timetable by INEC, with Nigeria’s electoral framework mandating public office holders to step down before seeking elective positions to prevent abuse of office and ensure fairness.