President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions 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 parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned enterprises.

The order was communicated through a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, in accordance with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of party primaries for the 2027 elections.

The circular, signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and released by Permanent Secretary Ibrahim Kana, clarified that the directive applies to all presidential appointees seeking to participate in party primaries or contest elective offices.

Affected officials are required to submit their resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation no later than March 31, 2026.

According to the directive, the measure is intended to ensure compliance with electoral laws, enhance transparency in the political process, and create a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.

President Tinubu urged all concerned officials to strictly adhere to the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria.

The development comes amid increasing political activities following the release of the 2027 election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Nigeria’s electoral laws require political appointees seeking elective offices to resign before participating in party primaries, a provision aimed at preventing abuse of office and ensuring fairness in the electoral process.