By Seun Ibiyemi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration seeking elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive was conveyed in a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by the SGF, George Akume.
According to the circular, the decision aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.
“The directive is pursuant to the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by INEC for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections,” the circular stated.
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Further details provided by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Ibrahim Kana, indicated that the directive applies broadly to all categories of presidential political appointees intending to contest elections or participate in party primaries.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, commissions, parastatals, and government-owned companies.
The circular also mandated that all affected officials must submit their resignation letters through the Office of the SGF on or before the stipulated deadline.
President Tinubu said the measure was necessary to ensure strict compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants.
The directive is expected to impact several top government officials, including the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who has been linked with governorship ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
The move signals the beginning of political realignments within the administration as potential contenders prepare for party primaries, in line with INEC’s election timetable.
The President also urged all affected officials to comply fully, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria.
