President Bola Tinubu has directed all political appointees seeking to contest elective offices in the 2027 elections to resign before March 31.
The directive was issued on Tuesday in a statement by Head of Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Dewan Goshit.
The statement said the president’s decision 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 ahead of the 2027 polls.
It said the directive applies to all categories of presidential political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective positions.
Those affected, according to Goshit, include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, and personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, commissions, parastatals, and government-owned companies.
He added that the affected officials are required to submit their resignation letters through the office of the SGF not later than the stipulated deadline.
“President Tinubu emphasised that the measure is necessary to ensure full compliance with electoral laws, uphold transparency in the political process, and promote a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections,” the statement said.
The president urged all concerned officials to adhere strictly to the directive, adding that his administration is committed to credible electoral processes and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
Tinubu directs political appointees seeking elective offices to resign before March 31
