President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.

The directive affects ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, directors-general, and chief executive officers of federal government agencies, commissions, parastatals, and government-owned companies.

The order was conveyed in a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by George Akume, with Ibrahim Kana issuing it on behalf of the General Services Office.

According to the circular, the directive aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.

“All affected officials must submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation not later than March 31, 2026,” the circular stated.

President Tinubu said the move is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency, and creating a level playing field for all aspirants.

The directive comes as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections, with INEC’s timetable already guiding political parties on the schedule for primaries and other pre-election activities.

Under Nigerian electoral laws, political appointees seeking elective positions are required to step down before participating in party primaries, a measure designed to prevent abuse of office and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.