President Bola Tinubu has directed members of his administration who plan to seek elective positions in the 2027 general elections to vacate their appointments on or before March 31, 2026.
The instruction was conveyed on Tuesday in an official circular endorsed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and released through the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.
In the communication, the President stressed that the step is aimed at ensuring adherence to electoral regulations, strengthening transparency, and guaranteeing fairness for all aspirants ahead of the next general elections.
Reference was made to Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries, as the legal basis for the directive.
According to the circular, the order covers all presidential political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or contest for any elective office in 2027.
Those listed include Ministers, Ministers of State, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, Personal Assistants, Directors-General, and Chief Executive Officers of federal parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies, alongside other political appointees under the Presidency.
The notice further instructed affected officials to channel their resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation not later than the stipulated deadline.
Reaffirming his administration’s position, the President urged strict compliance with the directive, noting that the move reflects the government’s resolve to deepen democratic practice and promote credible electoral processes across the country.
