…Directive targets ministers, aides, agency heads ahead of party primaries
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration seeking to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive, announced on Tuesday in a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws and safeguarding the integrity of the political process ahead of the polls.
According to the statement, which was issued by Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations in the OSGF, the decision is in line 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.
A circular conveying the President’s directive was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.
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The directive applies to a broad category of presidential appointees intending to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective offices.
Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, and personal assistants to the President, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies.
Other political appointees serving under the President are also covered by the order.
The statement specified that all affected officials must submit their formal letters of resignation through the Office of the SGF not later than March 31, 2026.
President Tinubu was quoted as stressing that the measure is necessary to promote transparency and fairness in the electoral process, while preventing conflicts of interest among public office holders seeking elective positions.
He noted that the directive would help create a level playing field for all aspirants and reinforce public confidence in the conduct of party primaries and the broader electoral system.
The President also urged strict compliance with the directive, reiterating his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible elections in Nigeria.
The development comes as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties expected to commence their nomination processes in line with INEC’s timetable.
