President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a definitive directive ordering all political appointees who intend to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign by March 31, 2026.
Ministers, Special Advisers, Directors-General of agencies, and Chief Executive Officers of government-owned companies.
The Presidency stated this is to ensure compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 and to maintain a level playing field, preventing the use of state resources for personal campaigns.
All affected appointees must submit their formal resignation letters no later than March 31, 2026.
The order is pursuant to Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and aligns with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable for party primaries.
To prevent the use of state resources for personal campaigns, uphold transparency, and ensure that appointees do not hold “dual roles” while contesting.
The directive applies to a broad range of federal officials.
