In a move aimed at reinforcing electoral integrity and adherence to due process, the Bauchi State Government has directed all political appointees with ambitions to contest in the forthcoming party primary elections to resign from their positions on or before Friday, April 24, 2026.
The directive, which has sent ripples through the state’s political landscape, is anchored on the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 (as amended), a legal framework that governs the conduct of elections and participation of public office holders in Nigeria.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, who emphasized that the decision reflects the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
“This directive is in line with statutory requirements governing the participation of public office holders in electoral processes and is aimed at ensuring full compliance with the law,” Gidado stated.
According to the statement, the government expects strict adherence from all affected officials, noting that the deadline is firm and non-negotiable. Appointees who fail to comply risk disqualification from the electoral process or other legal consequences as stipulated by the law.
The directive is widely seen as a proactive step to prevent conflicts of interest and the misuse of public office for political advantage. By requiring appointees to step down before engaging in partisan contests, the law seeks to promote fairness and transparency within the political system.
Political observers in Bauchi note that such measures, while not new, often test the discipline and commitment of political actors. In previous election cycles, compliance has varied, with some officials delaying resignation until the last possible moment, while others attempt to navigate legal loopholes.
This time, however, the tone of the directive suggests a stricter enforcement approach. Insiders within government circles indicate that monitoring mechanisms may be put in place to ensure that no appointee continues to wield official influence while pursuing electoral ambitions.
For many political appointees, the decision to resign is not a simple one. It involves relinquishing the security and influence of public office in exchange for the uncertainty of electoral contests. Yet, for those with strong political aspirations, the directive presents an opportunity to demonstrate commitment and seriousness of purpose.
Across the state, the announcement has triggered a wave of consultations, as potential aspirants weigh their options and strategize for the primaries. Party offices have reportedly begun witnessing increased activity, with aspirants engaging stakeholders, mobilizing support, and preparing for what promises to be competitive internal contests.
The directive also places pressure on political parties to ensure that their nomination processes align with legal requirements. Party leaders are expected to scrutinize the eligibility of aspirants carefully, verifying that all necessary conditions, including resignation from public office, have been met.
Beyond Bauchi, the development reflects a broader national emphasis on electoral compliance as Nigeria continues to refine its democratic processes. Legal experts argue that strict enforcement of provisions like those in the Electoral Act is essential to strengthening public confidence in elections.
They note that when public office holders are allowed to contest without stepping down, it creates an uneven playing field and undermines the credibility of the process. By contrast, enforcing resignation requirements helps to separate governance from political competition, ensuring that state resources are not used to influence outcomes.
For Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration, the directive is also an opportunity to signal its commitment to transparency and accountability. By insisting on compliance, the government positions itself as a custodian of democratic norms, even as political activities intensify ahead of the elections.
As the April 24 deadline approaches, attention will be focused on how many appointees heed the directive and how strictly it is enforced. The coming days are likely to witness a series of resignations, reshuffles, and political realignments as aspirants reposition themselves for the primaries.
Ultimately, the directive underscores a fundamental principle of democratic governance: that those who seek the mandate of the people must do so on equal terms, free from the advantages of incumbency.
In Bauchi State, that principle is now being tested in real time, with implications not only for the upcoming primaries but also for the broader credibility of the electoral process.
